Model 317 Kit Gun pricing rationale

[RobertoDeNuevoMexico]

I've been looking at the Model 317 .22 kit gun for some time, but the list price of $759 is enough to choke on and even the discounted price seems a bit steep. Recently I was able to find a pre-owned 317-3 on consignment at a very reasonable price and I'm happy with it.

Looking at other new J-frame revolvers, a Model 637 has a list price of $469. The guns are fairly close in construction, the differences being the 317 has a 3" barrel and a fiber sight and an aluminum cylinder, with the 637 having a 1 7/8" barrel, ramp sight and a stainless steel cylinder. They both have the same grips and an aluminum frame and weigh about the same, and their manufacturing costs can't be very different.

Obviously, these handguns can be acquired new for less than the list price, but what is the justification for a $290 list price difference?

 

[Targets Guy]

I guess I need to pay more attention to prices. I bought my wife's 317 in 2015 for $579. Wow.

 

[Zipdog]

A Ford Taurus and a Ford F150 costs within $60.00 of each other to manufacture. Guess how many on this forum gladly pay $5000.00 more to ride around in the F150.

 

[silversnake]

Supply and demand. How many J-frame .38 barrels and cylinders does S&W sell, vs. .22 LR? I suspect it might also cost more to make an aluminum cylinder with 8 .22 chambers vs. a steel cylinder with 5. 38 special chambers.

Edit: Or maybe not. The Ruger LCRx is the same price in .22 LR, .22 WMR and .38 SPL.