Metal Detector Prices?

[nealcat]

Is it just me, or do some of the so called "Hi End" metal detectors seem a little pricey. I don't believe there is anymore expensive technology in these metal detectors as there is in a smartphone and one of those can be bought out right without a contract for $650 or less. It must be in the quantity sold. A metal detector model might sell in the thousands of units, whereas, a smartphone probably sells into the millions. What do you guys think? I'm not beating up on detector manufacturers, everybody needs to make a profit. I was just thinking out loud.

So if everyone with a cell phone bought a metal detector the prices might go down. Hmm, don't know if that would be good either. Too many people tectin' not leaving enough for me. Forget I said anything. Leave well enough alone!!!

 

[Critterhunter]

I think you hit the nail on the head. Quantity is less in detectors, so you have to raise the price to make enough profit for design and research and manufacturing to get your money back and make that profit on top of it. Also, there is less competition with less detector manufacturers, so less reason to lower prices to compete. Only problem is there is a fine line that can be crossed in terms of what people are willing to pay. Raise the price too much and sales suffer and you don't make as much profit as you would with a lower price. There's a balancing act in capitalism where that line has to be found and walked.