I rarely (read: never) spend "our" money on guns. When I get something, the money comes from selling a different gun, gifts, doing some side work, ect. Three kids 3 and under have us on a strict budget.
With that being said, the two pistols I own are both <$450, but I've got a couple of rifles with close to $2000 in them. I tend to research research research until I know what I want, then shop around till I find the best price. That way when I sell, I know I won't be losing money, and usually make a little.