How can I get the best deal on a new M6400?

I've been looking at the ThinkPad W700, but I've recently noticed the Dell Precision M6400 as well. Both machines are pretty pricey, though. I know there aren't usually many sales or other deals offered on the Lenovo workstation-class notebooks, but is it pretty much the same for the Precision line?

Aside from coupons (if they even offer coupons for Precisions), are there any other tips for getting the best deal possible on one of these machines? When it comes to dropping $3k on a machine, I think it would make me physically ill to do so, only to find out later that I payed more than I really needed to.

I already plan to skimp on the RAM and HDD on whichever I choose and upgrade those myself later. Does is really help to call them and simply ask for a better price, as I've seen some people claim?

 

HP Elitebook's current sale is 24%.

 

Gah! I just checked out the 8730. Seriously, HP?? An eSATA port all the way to the front on the right side?? Plus ethernet, optical drive and 3-USB ports. Why do manufacturers do that? I guess someone using a mouse on the right side of the machine is just a crazy notion.

 

Thanks for the coupon code! Just ordered my M6400 from the outlet