BB1Shooter wrote:
Could someone please explain why replica airguns sometimes cost close to the same as the real thing (i.e. the gunpowder version they are replicating) or sometimes more?
For example, the Umarex Legends MP-40 list for $319.99 @ Cabela's
https://www.cabelas.ca/product/100648/u ... uto-bb-gunWhile the real one (in .22 LR) is only $599.99 @ Cabela's
https://www.cabelas.ca/product/117489/g ... atic-rifleAlso same for new Legends Cowboy Lever Action which is listing for $346 @ Replica Air Guns (or Walther Lever Action which list for around $600) vs. a real Winchester or Henry 1894
https://www.cabelas.ca/product/3078/hen ... tion-rifleAs well as the Mosin-Nagant 1944 CO2 BB rifle @ $499.
https://www.replicaairguns.ca/gletcher- ... 1944-rifle. I understand a good condition used Mosin can be acquired for less, and it has a real wood stock.
Does this make sense to anyone?
Well I looked into pricing recently for these type of replica pistols from Umarex, like Walther, made in Germany. They double the wholesale price at the very least to cover duty fee and a tax. The duty is 7% of the shipment with 5% being tax which they can get back. Storage, insurance, free shipping for certain purchase amounts by customers. They are well made and enjoyed by a particular clientele. They make their money by buying in volume. The Canadian distributor ships free if the net sale is 1800$ or more. Or they go through a customs broker and buy from the USA. Not a cheap business to get into and doesn’t pay a lot per item sold. They have to keep the inventory moving to make it pay. That’s part of the story. Typical mark up to make $ in addition to what has already been posted. Notice as well these pistols, although well made, do not sell very well second hand and less than whole sale. I enjoy my very much and do plan to keep using them unless the bylaws in my area change. Love shooting at those b??r cans.