Robert, I don't know where you are located, but Sig's additional "actual postage" does not apply in the US. If you are not in the United States, yes, they charge extra. You are sure right about it not paying to order a single small item, but that seems to be the problem with most any mail order. Try Virginia Hobbysports maybe, they only charge actual shipping. It always is at least $4, though, since they use USPS and that is about the cheapest rate. At least when I get something from them, the shipping charge is always the exact postage that is on the package so it don't feel that they are making money on shipping.