I suspect one factor is the Chicom Flu disrupting supply chains internationally. How many sources are there for fine lenses and other optic components? Do their home countries have restrictive work rules? Are their social welfare programs lucrative enough to incentivize workers staying home?

Possibly the increased demand for low end optics for new gun owners plays a role. Slow down production on the quality lines and step it up on the budget end.

How about slow international shipping of parts creating a backlog for parts? That’s all I can think of offhand.