The cost of Sportster accessory barrels has always been high in comparison to just buying a complete Sportster, that's nothing new, I've posted it many, many times, a centerfire rifle accessory barrel will cost $140 plus tax and the cost of sending the frame to them, about $160 total, ordering 2 barrels cuts that cost some since the return shipping is the same for 2 barrels. A new SB1 357 mag will cost $250+. Most members opt for a second hand barrel which is the most economical way to go, but there are no guarantees the barrel will fit without modification and those not comfortable with fitting a barrel usually just resell it taking a loss on the shipping costs.
Tim