I doubt the working class is the market they’re after. Since demand for the .45/70s was so strong the prices they brought were far over the retail price, and Ruger wasn’t getting that boost, jobbers and gunshops were. If they sell all they can make at a profit, then the rifle is a success, regardless of who buys them.
Take a look on GB and GI at the prices the previous editions are bringing, even the Remlins and hardwood-stocked 30As. I don’t thing $1200 for a new, arguably improved 336 is out of line with the current market at all. What was was, but what is is. I won’t be buying one, as my recent adventure with a classic one, while “educational”, showed me once again that a light bolt-action is far and away better for my use than any lever gun. Y’all can scramble for the old ones or pony up for the new ones without me.
