Just for some perspective here: Reloading (and shooting) is a long term proposition. While its frustrating to want some item or component right now and not be able to obtain it, we see most things over time. Part of this current shortage of ammo was caused buy us getting fed up with spot shortages and just buying things when we see them. That as opposed to buying when we "need" it. People have become used to the convenience of just being able to run out to a grocery, or in this situation the local gun shop and picking up anything the day they need it.
We have the other extreme here, too. Once you've wanted some item and can't find it, you vow it won't happen again. Then when you begin seeing things you know you'll want in the future, you just buy it.
.41 Mag components have never been in great supply. Its kind of a cult caliber. Those of us who have them and love them understand the shortage problems very clearly. Its probably the biggest defect in the cartridge, the lack of adequate supplys. Worse, the shops that have carried the caliber specific components (cases and bullets) sometimes can't sell the stuff they've had in stock (sometimes for years.) So their solution is to just liquidate it at the next gun show. They haul it in and mark the prices down to where it will sell.
If you don't attend shows, you don't ever see that side of the business. I have no idea what brand bullets I have in my ammo can full of .41 stuff. I just stumble through the gun shows looking in general. When I see packages or boxes of 41 mag bullets, I look at the prices. If it seems low or crazy low, I just buy them for the fun of it. I plan on never running out and the only way I can assure that is to just buy bullets when I see them at great prices. Maybe I'm the enemy here. I buy stuff I don't need immediately because I foresee the needs in the future, and I want it. I've done the same thing with 22 Jet bullets, too.
One of my sons and his brother-in-law were at the range the other day. They went to the attached gun shop and came back complaining about the prices of ammo and components. Think about the other side of the supply and demand curve. If the shop has everything you'd ever want in stock, their prices will need to be high enough the hoarders (me) won't clean them out. If their prices are low, word will get around and folks will come from all over to buy. That will result in bare shelves. Maybe its better the prices are way too high but the items are available to those who are willing to pay.
And a big part of the problem seems to be people with long memories, who remember when that item was $5 a box. Today the wholesale price is near $20, and the retailer needs to get $26 just to cover shipping, electricity, and clerks salaries.
