Why do most of the pistols look like 1911's or Glocks these days? I can't afford a P7, and the price of a new HiPower is out of reach. Why can't they make something like the Bren 10?
Because the factory production of firearms at competitive prices is based on meeting market demand - what sells the most at any given time. 25 years ago the handgun market was mostly revolver based, with a few Euro service pistol designs and the 1911 thrown in. Now, it's mostly service polymer pistols or cut down versions, double stack double action.
Want something else, so do others, they bid up the price on those guns due to more market demand for the much smaller quantity available. Price a P7 lately, expect near retail for a 25 year old used gun. Or more.
That is why the models listed as being "too high" aren't in the range of being "affordable" for some. And there's nothing wrong with avoiding military arms - in terms of style or fashion, they rarely have any. Compared to a '50's Weatherby bolt gun, they are sadly lacking in what some call finesse or elegance.
That is caused by the collective desire of the public buying what they do - and this too shall pass. Being as fickle as they are, the interest will swing to the other side in a few years, and those who find themselves surrounded by what the previously loved as an exception tend to make a new decision to get away from all the new owners and their braggadocio. Their interest moves - observe the masses and do the opposite - which restores a sense of balance in Not Being Mainstream.
I don't own a smart phone. I don't own a car less than ten years old. I own my house. I don't have cable or satellite. I built my AR.
In ten years about all I will own is a smartphone, I won't be able to drive, I'll be living in eldercare, I will have cable/sat, and the Home won't let me have any firearms at all.
Won't that be a change?
Just putting a perspective check into the conversation. Enjoy what you like while you can.