With inflation, $99.95 in 1963 is equivalent to almost $800 today. Is that inexpensive
Yes, I believe it is. At that time, I remember working a gas station for $0.75 per hour. Took me quite a few 8-hr days to come up with the cash what with taxes, social security etc taken out. The big Winchester, Remington, Browning, a Weatherby's units were running for 3 to 4 times that price, and were attainable solely in my dreams.
Just before I retired, I'd have $800 in hand in less than 2 days.
