450 Express, I should clarify when I say 100 pounds for labor. That 100 pays for much more then the actual wages to the personnel. There are many expenses attached to having a person working for you then just the money they get. For example health insurances, benefits like retirement, etc. Every employer gets paid part of that because he offers the smith a place to work and the work itself. I no way know all of the costs but to agree with you, gunsmithing is not a get rich profession but can be a most satisfying's one. I chose to be a toolmaker and then an engineer and got my gun making pleasure on the side. I truly loved the toolmaking and then engineering.
I very much hope Gallyon does well for many years to come.