I agree with recon_sine Preban pricing is definitely
subjective.
If you find one from someone that doesnt know what
they're selling, you might end up being able to bag
one for 700-800 bucks or so. The typical going MA
consignment rate though is more like $1200 or
more. Yeah, the price is high but I don't blame the
sellers, it's just capitalism.
You could poke around on gunbroker or other places for
low SN colts or bushmasters.... might take a bit of
legwork but you should be able to snag something for
less than $1000 if you're willing to spend the time.
-Mike