When I had an FFL, it was much easier. Now, I have to pay to register with an FFL, and have to pay for test samples. I do get enough discount that it defrays the DROS costs. When I sell to get something else to write about, I usually break even. In over 20 years of being a writer, I have been given only one test sample. Some samples I pay up front, others I get net 180, and pay or send back in 6 months.
I am really hoping to hang on to the .44 Open tops, though. The last pair I had in .45 were my favorite brace of pistols, second only to the ASM/EMF Type I Richards I had. With Commiefornia making it difficult to get guns, other than the three more rifles I have lined up to test, I probably won't be buying any more test sample after those. (unless I can get a Cimarron No. 3 American Model).
I plan on still keeping the Kirst Saber River 1860, though. It is a peach. I might have to trade the Avenging Angel to my son to get the 5.5 inch .44 Open Top back. We will see.