Prices are only going to go up. As far as guns go, they tend to start mid $300s so this doesn't seem too horrible. Maybe a little more expensive than the other options though. The only thing I do prefer in the list you posted was that some takedown/breakdown guns fit into their own butt. I really prefer that option and if I'm not looking at a lot of carry weight, that's what I'd go for. But every ounce counts; ask any Appalachian Trail hiker. The first thing to go out of the pack is deodorant. The next thing to go is the handle on your toothbrush. And so on. Better to arrive alive and with enough energy to set up camp than to make it with all of your stuff and fall into camp.
Oh, I agree, the price is not out of line with today's marketplace ... being older, I just look at them and laugh.
Nice! But these prices nowadays for such things just kill me. Thanks.