I think it is a matter of supply and demand in California. There are about 39 million people in the state, and only about 5 -10% of the FFLs now that there were 10-15 years ago. Cal DOJ has been on a crusade to put dealers out of business, and are succeeding. I had an FFL for 25 years, but did not renew in 2006 due to the draconian requirements instituted by the state since my prior renewal. That limits the sources for powder and primers (etc.) since few large chain sporting goods stores exist in unfriendly Kalifornistan. In a 50 mile radius of me, only two shops have powder and primers generally, and one more occasionally has some. During the post sandy Hook panic of the last year, they have had next to nothing in stock, with regular customers waiting there when UPS arrives and paying the price, no matter how high.