Why the hell does putting a rail on a 1911 increase the price so much?  

I am really jonesing for a 1911, and want one with a rail, but $1200-1600 is ridiculous when I can get a mil-spec one for $500-700.

Does the railed version have that many upgraded parts to account for the $700-900 price difference?  That almost seems impossible.  

Or are they just charging for the "bling"?

Quoted: Why the hell does putting a rail on a 1911 increase the price so much?   I am really jonesing for a 1911, and want one with a rail, but $1200-1600 is ridiculous when I can get a mil-spec one for $500-700. Does the railed version have that many upgraded parts to account for the $700-900 price difference?  That almost seems impossible.   Or are they just charging for the "bling"?

sure smells like its for the "bling"

but they hooked me, I just broke down and got me a SA Operator...

Both Kimber and SA have railed 1911s under $1000.  However, comparing a $1200 railed pistol (I assume you're talking about the TRP Operator) to a Mil-Spec doesn't make sense.

The prices I stated were MSRP.  I realize that most items go for less than MSRP, but since I haven't had time to find out actual prices that is all I have to compare.  

Kimber Warrior MSRP $1263

SA Operator A1 MSRP $1254

SA Mil-Spec MSRP $660

Why isn't it a fair compairson between a SA Operator A1 and a SA Mil-Spec?  Beside the rail, does the Operator have $594 (total difference) worth of upgraded parts?  Granted I am a noob to 1911's but it seems almost impossible that they do.  Maybe I am wrong.  Am I?

Both the Warrior and MC Operator retail for around $930.  A Mil-Spec 1911 is around $500.  In addition to the rail, the upgrades include better finish, better barrel, better sights, better trigger, better grip-safety, better thumb safety, better hammer and better grips.  If you step up to the TRP Operator ($1200-$1300) you can add adjustable sights, even better barrel, better fit, a mag-well funnel and front-strap checkering.

I think the rail requires a different casting with more metal, both excuses for raising the price.

I have seen SA MC Operators at gun shows for $899 NIB and I just picked up a Para Nite Tac (LDA w/ rail) for $695 from Impact Guns.