I just checked Cabela's site it says they are on sale but the "sale" prices listed are the same as the prices in their spring turkey catalog. I almost bought one last year when the price was $579 for the 12ga. I bought a new bow instead and don't regret it but I sure would like to see that price drop back down. As far as removing the tubes from what I understand it is so the wads won't get compressed. I think it would also be good for safety. Remove the choke and don't put it back until you load. If you see the choke is in you know that barrel is loaded.