Howard, you and I are the same, always talking about how great using gear is and the crave to do it but never just getting on and staying on as we should. In the back of my mind somewhere I worry it is "unhealthy" but I have no evidence to suggest such a thing.
I did my own experiment back in the 80's and left it behind with no regrets.
For me it is asimple case of the legal and health risks not being worth it, along with the extra money you have to spend.
Woriking out , bodybuilding and running now are my lifestyle and a fun hobby.
To do a bunch of steroids at this point in my life, seems silly.
To me it is like raw powerlifting vs useing supports, wraps and bench shirts.
I would much rather see what someone can lift with just a lifting singlet or t-shirt and gym shorts on.
Seems to be more of a real sport without all the extra gear to help lift the wt.
I feel the same about the extreme steroid use in BB.