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I've long been more of a handgun shooter over rifles, and noticed something odd: decent handguns cost more than decent rifles. E.g. a decent AR-15 from PSA is ~$500. If I go buy a new striker-fired Glock, it's going to cost more. If I buy a decent quality revolver, I can easily spend twice that as an entry point.

And yes, I know shotguns are dirt cheap, but I'm thinking more in terms of rifles vs handguns. Is it because fitting the same core components in a smaller package costs more, or because mass rifle manufacturers like PSA have better economies of scale, or am I doing an apples-to-oranges comparison because I wont buy truly "bargain" quality handguns from Acme Armsco?

I've long been more of a handgun shooter over rifles, and noticed something odd: decent handguns cost more than decent rifles. E.g. a decent AR-15 from PSA is ~$500. If I go buy a new striker-fired Glock, it's going to cost more. If I buy a decent quality revolver, I can easily spend twice that as an entry point. And yes, I know shotguns are dirt cheap, but I'm thinking more in terms of rifles vs handguns. Is it because fitting the same core components in a smaller package costs more, or because mass rifle manufacturers like PSA have better economies of scale, or am I doing an apples-to-oranges comparison because I wont buy truly "bargain" quality handguns from Acme Armsco?

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[–] • 1 pt

It's what I was thinking. I spent 1.2k on mine about 5 years ago and barely consider it decent. kek

[–] • 2 pts

I decided to go the ak way and $500 wouldnt buy you shit.

[–] • 2 pts

If I saw one at that price point I'd expect it to be broken in one way or another.

[–] • 1 pt

Are cheaper AR-s crap quality? I mostly shoot handguns or relics, so my knowledge of newer rifles is limited.

[–] • 1 pt (edited )

Everyone will say to build your own is the way to go. But if you buy cheaper expect what you pay for. Cheaper ones are notorious for jams and parts breaking. Older guns and handguns are the way to go if you're collecting or want something that lasts. AR's are fun to play with and look cool.

Edit: Grammer

[–] • 0 pt

Cheap ar's can be very reliable, you pay for accuracy and less weight.