Market Observations

[Bailey Guns]

We've had several heated discussions here about "price gougers" in the gun market in the past few years when demand far exceeded the ability of the manufacturers and wholesalers to meet that demand. Prices went up, most items were scarce, tempers flared.

Now were seeing the reverse. Factory fresh AR rifles offered for sale at prices I've personally never seen before. In the last few weeks I've seen new DPMS rifles at sub-$500 prices. Free shipping offers, lowers at $39, complete uppers in the $260 range, Colt 6920 rifles under $900, etc... Yes, ammo is still scarce and even the stuff that's readily available isn't dropping in price as fast as guns. I think that's due to demand still being high and the cost of the materials to make ammo has gone up far more than the materials to make guns. But even ammo is coming down to prices relatively close to what it was pre-panic.

I don't want to start a big pissing match over the issue, but I'm curious what the "price gouger" guys think about the current state of pricing, particularly in regards to AR stuff since that's the focus of the forum. Personally, I think "price gouging" is a myth and I firmly believe pricing is related to a (relatively) free market and is heavily dependent on supply and demand. I believe if a product is offered at a particular price and someone buys it then that's the market at work, regardless of how high the price is.

Frankly I'm really tempted to buy a bunch of AR lowers and other parts that I have absolutely no need for right now simply because the prices are (in my experience) ridiculously low. PSA is making it hard to maintain some financial discipline but I've resisted so far. I may not be able to hold out if prices drop any further.

Just curious what some others think.

[sroz]

I agree with everything you point out. The people who jumped in during the panic have got everything they want with the possible exception of ammunition. In many case they spent their savings or used credit. If they are able to, many are trying to again build up savings. With the economy as it is, a lot of people are now unemployed or have had to take on jobs that pay them significantly less. Many have even had to sell some or all of their guns.

As for price gouging, they take the risk, they reap the rewards (good or bad). I avoid them, but that is my choice.

Your thoughts on buying now with the low prices is right on in my opinion. I don't believe anyone knows where any of the markets (stock, bond, real estate, PM) are heading. Guns & ammo are just as safe a bet if not better. $99 shotguns & sub $500 ARs could soon double in price.

[Great-Kazoo]

It's hard to justify spending when your financial situation is in the shitter. Especially when you still have a lot of early pre-panic priced items. However between the nov mid-term and over zealous use of EO from the CIC, One wonders if Not spending a few $$ now will be a Should Of come 11/14.
It's as fluid as the PM market. Buy now while it's under $20 per on silver or let it go by.

[WillysWagon]

3 lowers I purchased at $40 turned into 2 SBR's and a Dissy due to the fact prices had gone down on parts, like the uppers you mentioned.
Now's a great time to buy !!

[Bailey Guns]

Here's a piston AR for $599 (blem), free shipping, if you're a "Team Bud's" member. Does it get any better than that?

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...BLK+6-POS+Blem

[Mtn.man]

As for ammo we found some .223 both 55 grain HP and FMJ for .26 a round

[Great-Kazoo]

Here's a piston AR for $599 (blem), free shipping, if you're a "Team Bud's" member. Does it get any better than that?

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...BLK+6-POS+Blem

Team Buds? They toss in a mj gift card?

[TFOGGER]

I bought almost nothing during the panics, seriously contemplating dropping some coin on stuff now that the prices have come down. As far as gouging, caveat emptor, the item is worth whatever you are willing to pay.

[kidicarus13]

As for ammo we found some .223 both 55 grain HP and FMJ for .26 a round

Please do share for other interested forum members.

[XJ]

I've been very responsible lately, paying extra against loans instead of buying lowers, uppers, parts, and ammo. It is very