It's normally much quicker to put the bags on the belt and then leave instead of continuing up the escalators to the zoo that is the rescreening area, where you can be standing in line for hours. If challenged, I always say that I'm meeting a friend outside first. Going back into security from the main non-secure area means you have the option of TSA Pre-check, for a start.
Totally agreed. Two times ago a TSA agent said to me "you need to go this way" and pointed towards the dedicated screening. I just said "thank you" and walked out the door. What I think is really odd is that the "there is no Pre-Check" signs are AFTER you already enter the screening maze. When I forgot to leave, passed the sign and remembered, I asked a TSA agent if I could exit the line. His response was "you've already started the screening process, you must continue."