I guess it's not because he could not find a $1200 one if he keeps searching, it's because he does not want to wait or burn gas running here and there looking for it anymore. Maybe one day you sell it, it's tag at $1200 better price, first, he may not see it, second, even if he sees it, that gun does not neccessarily fall into his pocket. If he could take another attitude, say, "no matter where it goes, I can imagine it's mine", then life become much easier.
Just kidding. German style grip does demand a little bit more premium.
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BTW, why do people want to pay $$ to hold a gun in safe, seldomly see anyone taking the above mentioned better attitude
