I agree, many folks are penny smart and dollar stupid
but you take a bow, add in a rest, sights stabilizer quiver and arrows and broad-heads and a release, a target to practice with, and you walking about with a lot of coin out of your wallet
and as you pointed out there values drop REAL Fast
and there a wear and tear more IMO than a rifle is
NOT that again anyone will shoot as many shots out of rifle as most GOOD Bowhunters will in off season.
but I just cannot see the HUGE jump in prices that are out there
YES hunters are suckers and will PAY
and makers know this
I just don't get WHY hunters are so willing to spend it on archery gear!
I sold archery and guns for many yrs, and never seen guys spend like they are willing to these days!