I bought a Python for $400.
People bought Registered Mags for $500 maybe 10 years ago, now worth multiple thousands.
I have multiple Garands(none bought at current pricing, so what?), including 2 Collector Grades that I bought for less than a grand, one of which is a tractor gun. Good for me I guess, I must be a genius like some of you.
So what? That was then this is now.
Saying how much you spent years ago has zero bearing on current day pricing, I don't see why people keep bringing that up, yesterday was yesterday. But keep repeating your "deal" if it floats your boat.
A Garand with new wood is hardly in the "it was there category" if you want to be so picky.
And with that I'm out of this back and forth
I'll try to be positive.