The reason, of course, is that you are buying a gun with new barrels, which is fantastic. My 16 ga C&H has 28 in sleeved, fluid steel barrels, done exceptionally well in the UK, with only the faintest seem lines. It was also beautifully restocked at some point and rejoined by Hosford. The only original items are the side locks, chambers and rib. I essentially have a new gun, made in 1886. Its a perfect British round-body field gun for a very reasonable price. This is why one buys a sleeved gun. For those who have an irrational dislike for sleeved guns, no worries. I will enjoy shooting and collecting them.