Yep, shame-shame-shame! But, I'd guess that it was an expensive rifle to manufacture. They are still "obtainable" at a inflated price, but worth it if you want one bad enough, as mentioned, in .300 Savage and .30-30. Again, the .22 HP and .22-250's, and the .35 Remington versions went collector status a long time ago. Not sure what they bring in .303 Savage caliber these days. The .35 would be my Holy Grail Savage 99, but I'm perfectly happy with it in .30WCF. I load it with a 180 grain round nose bullet for a bit less expansion and a bit more penetration in case Grizz or Mr.Moose challenge me to a duel. I always thought the .303 Savage cartridge was a cool one with it's 200 grain bullet. Of course, the .30-30 could be loaded the same if one wished.