Yeah, I don't get the sense that they're trying hard enough to optimize the operational cost that well. The SpaceX approach sacrifices performance, in the sens

Yeah, I don't get the sense that they're trying hard enough to optimize the operational cost that well. The SpaceX approach sacrifices performance, in the sense that you need to leave some (heavy) fuel in the tank for recovery. That is delta-V that you could use to loft a heavier payload. I'm impressed by the SpaceX approach in general. They're using and re-using the most proven technologies in an innovative way. I think powered landings are the way to go.