Because of the humble background from which I came , guns were always tools. If I had one , no matter how unfashionable it was , I could eat game , win shooting matches , and protect myself. Pride has no place for me. I've known many folks that had no gun due to unresourcefulness. No opportunity to hunt , compete , and perhaps to better themselves , as well as learn how to protect themselves. I was always a student of simple mechanisms , and the m/l rifle is one of those devices. The $800 for a m/l parts set , is a chance to build a copy of a fine gun , and use , or sell it , as needed. That's why I have no "safe queens". I'm not running a gun orphanage , nor a tool collector's museum , and have just what is needed to finish out my days.