He might have seen or heard about the recent CMPAuction of a early Underwood with a replacement barrel, Austrian markings and mixed parts. It was INTRAC Import marked also. Can only assume it was donated(?) to the CMP.
It sold in late June for $3,162 after receiving 109 bids.
I see a lot of first time younger buyers on Redditt posting pictures of their mixer carbines asking 'How'd I do? after giving over $2,000.00++. Often with replaced barrels, sometimes Fake parts and post WWII stocks. But they've got that Cool Reproduction Stock Pouch.
The comments show:
It's the older more seasoned collectors / shooters that know the values.
Many of the younger, I call Techy Types want the guns they see in the movies or play on their computer games. And they have the cash for the toys they want. Because many of them still live with Mom or Grandma.
My son only has the guns I've bought for him. He enjoys shooting with me but wouldn't spend a dime on one on his own. When it comes to his field being a Computer IT Tech he has a easy 6 figure+ invested in those toys.
Hang in there sometimes Carbines find us. I'll tell you one day how a phone call to me about renting some of my lifts led to me getting 5 Carbines