The first thing I do is install upstream owrt.

I was running a shell script that invoked cURL on a GL.iNet router at $DAYJOB. cURL was broken in this application with some inscrutable error that went away when I used stock openwrt.

I wouldn't go as far too call it janky. Just an openwrt with some proprietary stuff. I'm quite happy with it with my Flint 3 and it's not preventing my freedom to do whatever I want.

I also like Flint 3's skin on top of openwrt/luci, it's just easier and more convenient.