Several years ago I paid $125.- for my copy and took some time and read it. Several months later I was at a gun show and saw what the dealer claimed was a grade 1 non-ejector with most of its original finish, some case colors on the action and side plates and had Damascus barrels. He said it was a grade 1 due to the engraving. Another high end dealer came by and confirmed it was a grade 1 because of the engraving. I negotiated a deal based on their claim. I thought it was a transitional Quality 2 and it was. Some other features were 28 lpi checkering, drop points, ebony diamond inlay, etc.. I ended up paying about 1/3 to 1/2 of what the gun is worth. Did I pay an outlandish price for the book? I don't think so.