Let's not forget that 3M sells that tube to walmart for $2.00 (just guessing)because they order 200 times what Rick does. If you buy in volume you get a better wholsale price. I don't think making a profit is gouging. We really can't make a judgement unless we knopw what they are paying before mark-up. However as atated before we can choose where to shop. I personally will pay a little more to stay the @$#$$ out of a Walmart. Not to say that I don't want a good price, but loyalty has its place. Walmart also couldn't care less about sailors. I like to try to support those who support our sport. I'm not a big fan of West Marine but Jake is right sometimes they are the most convenient.

Always borrow money from a pessimist. He won't expect it back.