Buying on gunbroker.

[Tacit Blue]

I was wondering what your guy's experiences with buying on gunbroker is? I'm looking at buying a riflescope, the " buy it now" price is 700$ without a reserve. Within 10 hours it will end, I can put X amount of $ and take it as along there's no competition. It's advertised as new in box.

What should I be looking for in a seller? I made one rule to only buy from verified FFL's or high trader rating. Also, doesn't paypal offer protection against scammers?

[Zenja]

I've bought many fine guns on Gunbroker at real deals at times,
only had one problem, here lately, got ripped off,
the Gunbroker support/response to these issues is tepid at best,
and although they supposedly have a money back fraud protection
program they seem to be weasiling out of paying it off,
you hafta interpret the feedback and yes it is a bit of a gamble,
but it allows you a great selection of guns that I cannot begin to find
locally in my area,
its a great asset

Z

[fred40]

Look at their feedback and at the items they have sold. I have bought $1000+ items and luckily everything has worked out fine. Also check if the seller can give you his phone number and talk to the seller.

[troysland]

Thing about paypal, If a statement or invoice has any gun related wording, they've been known to close accounts. I've purchases many items on GB. I usually send a Post Office money order and keep all the contact info. Usually to avoid credit card fees most sellers charge. Look into their policy on buyer protection. YMMV.

[RedFord150]

I bought my Colt Double Eagle off of Gunbroker and met the seller at an FFL, where I paid him. This took most of the risk away for me. I got to see him and the gun before handing over my $.
Anyway to do a Face to face meet before paying?

[TNP'R]

I don't use them and never will. First time I ever tried to sign up for gunbroker they claimed I was a scammer.

[madjack956]

I have bought a few firearms on Gunbroker as have some of my friends with no problems.

Do as much research as possible on the seller and follow your gut.

[Zedrek]

I don't use them and never will. First time I ever tried to sign up for gunbroker they claimed I was a scammer.

And you took it personal and just gave up? I've got a few guns through Gunbroker and never had a problem. Check their feedback, see how much auctions they have had and if it seems to good to be true it probably is. Also, don't use Western Union or any other money orders. Use a postal money order as the post office will investigate if fraud is involved.

[JBaus]

Bought my SKS on Gunbroker and took the chance with a new seller.....Deal went exceptional well and was very happy with the transaction.

[hcbr]

It's fine to buy so long as they have good feedback. Usuallythey'll ask to call the shop and pay in credit card or send MO, make sure you do a USPS MO for your sake and security.

Otherwise, i've done some shopping on their and it's so far been all good!

[Press Check]

I've purchased rifles, pistols and accessories on GB, and have never had a problem. Look for the obvious, which is verified members with good feedback. A lot of shops with a storefront post on GB, which is who I prefer to do business with.

[Mr. Magoo]

I have not purchased any firearms, but I have had no problems getting reloading supplies off there.

[Hot Holster]

I have sold things on GB but have never bought anything. As a seller, I describe the item as if I was the purchaser wanting to know specifics, and also include photos. I welcome any questions and would be willing to talk on the phone if necessary.

When buying, if you don't get direct answers to your questions, it would throw up a caution flag to me. As others have said, look and read the sellers feedback. Ask questions unless everything you need to know is spelled out in the ad. If you do win the auction, the sellers contact info becomes available to you, as your info becomes available to the seller. The info is only available to the buyer and seller once the item sells.

Also, make a copy of the ad and all communications between you and the seller. Pay with a credit card if the option is there, a personal check, or a money order DO NOT use paypal gift, or a debit card.

[YZINGERR]

I feel that I have better luck with GB auction buyers and sellers than I do with fleabay. I feel that the people seem to be better there (go figure, gun people). My vision is skewed as I only have <50 dealings on GB and 600+ on fleabay

[mjsweims]

I haven't done much on Gunbroker, but I just sold two shotguns. The first one went fine - received payment and ffl info then shipped it off. I heard back today and he is happy.
The second one is a bit strange. I was paid right away. The buyer is having trouble finding an ffl (I am not an ffl)to receive the shotgun and I am holding on to it until I get a copy of the ffl license.
If you are buying from someone with a low number of GB deals ask if they have done any selling elsewhere, like ebay and check their rating.