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Why are sidelock shotguns more expensive to buy?

I thought that sidelocks were easier to manufacture than boxlocks. So why are they more expensive to buy?

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Time Well Spent
Time Well Spent April 8, 2010

Shooting technical
MIKE GEORGE
I can’t think why boxlocks should be more expensive to produce than sidelocks, considering that most modern boxlock actions are constructed using computer controlled machine tools, with a minimum of hand finishing.

Another major consideration is the stock, which needs to be made of superior wood on a sidelock, and requires some very precise hand-work to fit the locks.

By and large, I think gun prices nowadays are very fair, particularly bearing in mind that all but the most expensive are imported and that the pound has fallen considerably against the Euro and other major world currencies in recent times.

Also remember that most retailers considerably undercut importers’ recommended retail prices.

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