Springfield and Colt both made a few thousand (5000 each I think) of basic 9x23s. These models were discontinued the next year and at one point were selling below $400.
The reason? Winchester's lawsuit with John Ricco,
www.classicpistol.com , attempting to sort out the patents on 9x23.
Now of course the guns are hard to find and prices are high.
There is no need for a fully ramped barrel if you are using 9x23 Winchester brass. BarSto makes one of the better if not the best 9x23 barrel. At least Dick Heinie and I think so. Ramped or unramped either can be supported in the web area of the case.
9mm Govt models and 38 super Govt models are easy conversions to 9x23.
Dane Burns
www.9x23win.com
[This message has been edited by Dane Burns (edited October 27, 2000).]