The rise in price was to be expected, and they are not out of line. The single shot pheonomenon is something some folks just "don't get".
Those who are into it however, fully understand. Tim, CW Longshot and many others here are fully into it and I can understand the the whole idea behind it...because although I am not EXCLUSIVELY single shot, I do like the challenge...and we are not alone. Dakota sells their SS rifles for $6000+, Ruger #1s aren't cheap either, and the European stalking rifles can fetch a very pretty penny.
If one is "into" SS rifles, the NEFs can be considered a real bargain, especially when compared to the above mentioned rifles.
, and most of vthe "high priced spread" has nowhere the barrel options the NEFs offer and the NEFs will shoot with them..or better. Is the NEF @ $225 or $250 too costly? I don't think so..sure, you can buy an entry level bolt @ $375-$400..but stay with me..
Say you buy a NEF in .223 for........$225
Then you buy a 12or 20 ga barrel...$44
Then a Hornet.........$90
Then a 30-06 .........$90
Then a 45/70..........$90 ...Totals $539..That gives you a 5 gun battery for almost anything you want to hunt on this continent.
Sure, you may have to also get scopes, but that would be true with your bolt rifles too.
Now, consider those cheaper bolts @ $375 X 5...equals $1875 to do the same job... Of course, unless you enjoy the challenge of single shot hunting, you may not appreciate this...