From what was said, it sounds like the heavy hitters in the cost are the hardware and gas shocks. Very understandable. It does seem priced accurately for what you are getting, great product.
That being said, there are material choices for bushings and hardware that would be cheaper but still corrosion resistant and durable. It would be possible to make a version with nylon bushings/bearings and the likes. There is no way to get around the strut price, but other things may be done to cut a hundred or so off the materials.
I'm not trying to nit pick but material science and mechanical equipment are my thing (Mech. Eng.) I really think this can be made cheaper using alternative components.
THAT BEING SAID, you will most likely have a product that is not as industrial or physically robust as these original ones. It's like a hood hinge for a space ship VS a ford pinto. If you want best of the best, go with them as they are currently. The cycle life will be amazingly long I'm sure. They are impressive pieces.
If you want something that looks good and works well for the average joe, a cheaper version will work and last long time as well. Just not past a nuclear meltdown like the original bad boys.
Keep in mind, the cheaper it is, the less life it will have- either kinetically or aesthetically. You could make the whole thing out of carbon steel for hella cheap, but it would probably rust over time and be heavy as all get out. Think of the whole cheap, reliable, good triangle.
Just my 2 cents.
