AW
batteries aren't trying to compete on price, but quality and safety. Among other things, they have an additional form of protection where a venting condition causes the anode and cathode to become physically separated, which makes it impossible for the auto-catalysis to continue. It's also the only source I've found for Li-MN and LiFePO4 cells (different chemistries that are inherently safe from thermal runaway).
Perhaps it's overkill, I don't use them myself. But it's justifiable, especially if you are using them in conditions that would make less reliable cells even more potentially hazardous.
--Dave