[West Texas Chuck]

$1500 is actually about right. Like I inferred, I am sucking that state of Texas hind tit at the moment, but that will hopefully change soon.

Not buying any new weapons until it does ;)

[Yosemitest]

Watch the local want ads in sales papers. You'll be surprised at what you'll find.
Check out the gun show/fairs when they come to areas near you.
And if you're in west Texas, you might just go to Mexico, and buy there, and declare it when you come through Customs.