On Mon, 17 Sep 2012 21:16:33 +0000 (UTC), John Doe
wrote:

I'm thinking no more than three dollars each for R4A ball bearings,
1/4 inch inner diameter and 3/4 inch outer diameter. Looks like
prices range somewhere from about $1.50 to $10+ (US).

Why so much difference in price?

Several different quality levels are available, but you're probably
looking more at sourcing (US-made v. imports), wholesale/retail
levels, and gouge factor. Some people just have to triple the price
to get the percentage they want. (probably just another Right Wing
Conspiracy, wot?)

--
The most decisive actions of our life - I mean those that are most
likely to decide the whole course of our future - are, more often
than not, unconsidered.
-- Andre Gide