I don't know what market your talking about. The CSA 858 has always been a steady 1499. I looked for mine for months right after the last administration lifted the ban on them and nowhere had them cheaper. I always had my eye on them even after I bought my 7.62 version because I was mulling over grabbing a 5 56 version too. Im kicking myself for not having done so. Even worse is I sold my 7.62 version before the ban. Got the same as I paid for it - tax. Buddy bought it off me used for 1500 and he was happy to do so.
was way below 1500..... 800 back then if my memory is good
VZ 58 vs Type 81SA manufacturing is going to be very different. The CSA VZ 58 are completely milled from cast, have more complicated parts, way higher tolerances and machining standards, and a Wolther Barrel.
The Type 81SA just has a few milled parts, some apparently from cast, and a whole bunch of riveted together, stamped and hardened steel.
If a stamped steel gun cost the same or more then a milled gun to manufacture..... the Commies wouldve stuck with a milled gun.
Just saying it how it is.....