Hardly. Some of us just have enough space in our heads to remember less than 5 years ago when there were plenty of quality rifle designs to be bought for under $1500.
I’m surprised to see JR mentioning all these people that apparently hate him. I don’t think anybody has any hate for the guy, but with all the dud 180s that have hit the market since the ban, you’d have to be a fool to be enthusiastic about any new design.
You can’t blame the consumer for that.
As for the R9… looks different to me. Obviously Sterling has redesigned something there.
Most people would much prefer to buy a Swiss Arms made rifle instead of a 180 pattern dumpster fire platform....but well....yep...