Would Gunslinger be more appropriate as a Prestige Class?

Starting 1st level characters really cant afford firearms additionally they would be hard pressed to afford the cost of ammunition.

I know a "Grit ability" was thrown in to aleviate this somewhat but really that got me wondering.

Wouldn't it just make more sinse as a prestige class. By the time most characters would qualify for it they would have the resourses to support the style and not need a "gimmick ability" mechanic to make it work.

You wouldn't need one of the Class Features to be "Oh and by the way we will give you this class specific weapon that you couldnt ever possible afford at first level so that the class is playable."

It just seems that a Prestige class would be the most appropriate approach here.

Opinions? Thoughts?

I could see it as a prestige class, but also as a fighter archtype, as opposed to a fighter sub-class. With the fighter's ability to trade out bonus feats every 4th level, you could start off with a crossbow and upgrade to a gun when you can afford it.