Due to forums like this, auction sites, and the increasing number of folks learning to use the internet to hunt down information, it is increasingly difficult (but not impossible) to find a 'great deal' at prices that were just 'fair' five to ten years ago.
The whiners and cheapskates complain they have been priced out of the market, that we're creating our own inflation, that they shouldn't have to pay $300 for a $200 gun (whatever that means), blah, blah, blah . . .
Truth is, everything costs more than it used to, that's generally the way it's always worked and I don't expect it to change in my lifetime. Looking at what these guns sold for in the late '60's and early '70's when I got into the game, compared to what houses, automobiles, or any other 'durable goods' cost then verses now, the prices on a lot of these guns are still a bargain. Factor in what you would pay for a new offering that may not even have the construction features you desire and do have some you may not, and it can change your perspective.
Like it or not, we're living in a time where more people are educated about what these things are worth and and faced with a market where competition is coast to coast, not just local. More and more mom and pop small shops (the ones that are left) are internet savvy and check prices and use the auction sites to buy and sell.
Everyone loves to hit that guy at the gun show who is 80 years old and doesn't even know how to turn on a computer or walk into a shop that hasn't changed since the 50's and still operates that way - but those a getting fewer and more far between every day.
Bottom line - they made "scads" of model 10s and there are deals out there. And occasionally someone still finds a registered magnum, or a pre-29 for $400. Most of us wish and dream and keep a sharp eye out for that one 'pearl' in a 55 gallon drum of glass marbles. But if you want it, and it doesn't hurt you financially, you can either get it while it's in front of you or hold out for that "killer deal" that may or may not come along on your path for a long time. Those who keep their nose to the trail, keep available cash, and are patient can do pretty well still buying for less than the rest of us mere mortals. For some the thrill is in the chase, not the capture.
MNSHO - not a bad price if that's what you want in a shooter. If you're looking to flip it or find a 'collectible', keep looking for that deal or that pearl.
YMMV
