Can you get the same or even better flight experience w/o being a CFI, yep. Normally, to do that however, you have to be really lucky, if you fall into some 135 type stuff or business style twin flying, then you're probably set, and will gain some very practical real world weather conditions, along with great instrument skills.

Truth though, is that most people aren't overly lucky, and as a result, they have to go get a job somewhere to gain this experience. CFI'ing is probably the most direct way to do this.

I say, CFI, enjoy it, and take your pick of what company you want to go work for. That'll keep you from getting stuck at a company that you won't be happy with.