Was anyone really expecting a completely brand new, hot off the presses rifle?
Plus, at this point, we all know it will have a non-chromed barrel, and will be 'newly produced' from used parts.
Expectations are much lower than when Marstar originally released the restricted version.
I think $650 is a fair price for the rifle as sold, especially when you figure you get 5 mags, the bayo, the tool kit, etc etc.
At Marstar prices for the accessories:
4 5/30 rnd. Mags in 4 Mag Pouch $189.95
VZ-58 Bayonet w. Scabbard $49.95
VZ-58 Cleaning Kit $14.95
VZ-58 Sling (already comes with rifle) Y $9.95
So the rifle alone would cost $400
Take your run of the Mill SKS-D for about $250 market price (closer to $300 at some places)
Add in 4 AK magazines @ Marstar price of $50 each = $200
Add a cheapo AK mag pouch for $20, a crappy knife and scabbard for $20 and you are at about $500.
If you want the 'look cool factor' on the SKS-D you also have to buy a $100 Dragunov stock (for AK like coolness, guaranteed to impress your friends!).
That's $600 for SKS-D + Crap
or $650 for the 858 + Crap
All things considered, not a horrible deal.
Some of you just have to look at things more objectively.