Sure, the Storm's firmware has been updated multiple times by RIM, and Verizon even got on board and pushed out 4.7.0.148 several months ago. But it's still a bit buggy and slow. If that doesn't bother you, be sure to hit up your Verizon Wireless store soon. At that price, it probably won't last long.
Of course, if you're smart, you'll skip the Storm and wait for the Storm 2, which, according to a Verizon Wireless employee, may launch as soon as September 29.
A Verizon employee who frequents the forums over at CrackBerry.com took a screenshot that revealed the release date of the Storm 2. It should be available via Verizon Wireless' business channels first, followed by retail on October 14.
Keep in mind, RIM has yet to own up to the Storm 2's existence, and neither RIM nor Verizon have announced this device in any capacity. Still, taking the Storm firesale timing and match it up with this purported sales date, and it's not too much of a stretch to believe that the information is legit.