Private Party Sales by Mail?

[sgt0ddball]

Is there a way to do a private party sale for a used firearm safely by mail? I am not sure if this is ever done, there are just so many variables and unknowns to a used gun. Is there a way to have a gun shipped to a FFL/Dealer that could inspect it and verify you are getting what you paid for? I guess the main issues here are how does the seller and buyer protect themselves. The seller wants to be sure he gets paid before he gives up his firearm and the buyer wants to make sure the item matches its description/photos. These issues just don't come into play when you are purchasing new from an online retailer.
Thanks

[TheBest]

Use some kind of escrow service?

Other than that, no.

BTW, I don't think it's isn't really a PPT since both people are not present to do the exchange.

[keenkeen]

Use some kind of escrow service?

Other than that, no.

BTW, I don't think it's isn't really a PPT since both people are not present to do the exchange.

Yes, an Escrow service would be the way to go if you are really concerned about the condition of the gun.

BTW, your right it's not a PPT...and the OP never said it was, he stated "private party sale".

[Flintlock Tom]

Ask the seller what his return policy is. You should know a name and an address in case things "escalate."
I buy a lot of guns on-line from private individuals and vendors and have never had a problem returning a gun if it was misrepresented.
I have sold a few guns on internet auctions and my posts always include: "If you are not happy with this gun for ANY reason return it in the same condition as received and I'll refund your purchase price plus one-way shipping."
I have never had a gun returned.

[sgt0ddball]

Just to clarify, I am looking to purchase an AR15 and I have found many for sale on Calguns but most are located in the big cities in the southern or northern part of our state. I live on the central coast which requires a minimum of 2 to 4 hour drive. I am new to this site and methods used for gun sales. I realize the usual way is to meet someone at a local FFL to make the sale and then process the DROS afterwards. I just wasn't sure if there was a safe way to have someone ship a firearm and complete a sale via the mail. It just seems bit risky but maybe doable.