There's always been a market for inexpensive guns, and for those who could afford them and appreciated the difference, nice ones. Even when Number 1s were only a couple hundred bucks (and were VERY nice), they only sold moderately well because most shooters were happy with 700s for about a C-note and $90 .30/30s. It takes time for consumers to deveop their tastes and some discernment about the products they buy, and some never get past the "gun as tool" stage, which is fine if that suits them. I feel that way about vehicles myself. It ain't always because it's all they can afford either.
'
