We can go on and on about the +/- of steel and poly guns and be mostly right depending on what you like in a gun. I agree with the comment that progress was the demise of the 3rd gen Smiths. The buyers dictate the market and they have spoken. I don't own a poly gun only because I like steel and my guns aren't just "tools" for me...they are one of my passions. I like craftsmanship and style in a well made gun to go along with great functionality. As for what people will pay? I just saw a NIB 6906 go for $725.00 on GB. But probably not enough people like that to support production.