would it be wise to cut some slits in my air filter than to purchase a $50 one?

I,m just curious, what filter costs $50?

I,m just curious, what filter costs $50?

Maybe OP means the Cabin Air Filter? Although, the filter for my 2000 SE is only $27 at Kragen...

the high performance ar filters are $50. so Iwas thinking if I could cut some slits in my air filter I have now to get more air through

An air filter is exactly what it says (filter), if you think it is a restrictor then why not just remove it.

The air filter is designed to keep dirt out of your engine.
A $50 air filter is cheaper then a $2500 engine

It would be very unwise to tamper with any filter regardless of cost. You'd be simply defeating it's purpose. You'd be subjecting yourself to an early demise of your piston rings.

Dont cut slits in air filter.....depending on the year it could destroy the MAF sensor...You can get a Fram filter for probobly around $10