New Vs. Old Whats the Deal?

Well I have been in the market for some time now to purchase a new rifle. I have searched hi and low from gun shops, pawn shops, gun shows, private sellers, and infinity and beyond. I just cannot seem to figure out why most of the used guns I run accross seem to sell for almost the same as a new item. I cannot possible figure out why I would pay 150 for lets say a .22 caliber semi used when I can spend just that much or a bit more (say 10 to 20 dollars) and buy a new one. Do used guns hold that much value? I just don't understand it. I have also looked at 22-250's .222 .223 and others only to find the same results. Even guns like .17 are hard to find in used condition for a fair price. Is it safe to say that the election has driven the price of used arms up? Well I thought I would just put this out there. Maybe some of you might have better suggestions or places to look. I really am not picky about what I get, I do not do much deer hunting but more small game and varment hunting. I don't have much of an arsonal at home so I want to purchase multiple firearms. As everyone, now adays, my budget is tight, but I don't mind paying for a quality firearm(No reason to cheap totally out). So in wrapping up let me know what you think. Maybe you have something laying around that I would be interested in. Am I wasting my time looking for used guns? Should I just save up a bit more and buy all new? Or is there something I am missing out there? Thanks for you help.
BTW I am fairly new to the board and I just want to say it is a great resource for local knowledge!

[URL]http://www.whittakerguns.com/home.htm[/URL] New & used eH ;)

Part of the higher cost right now is that today Obama is being sworn in and people are worried that there ability to purchase firearms will be severel hampered in the very near future. Also remember, depending on what brand you are looking at, they will hold their resale value a lott better than some off brand.

Heck try and find ammo to some of the common calibers out there. Your choices are few and the prices are sure to go up. Handgun ammo has been hit the hardest.