Interesting Trend on Gun Broker

[PRM]

I browse Gun Broker fairly frequently, and have noticed recently that several sellers are listing guns "As New" "NIB"... and the pics obviously show varying degrees of wear on the finish??? One listing was titled "As New In The Box," but the description discretely stated in the fine print that it was 95%. One Walther listed "as NIB" showed a pitted and worn backstrap???

Maybe they don't care about their feedback or plan on honoring a 3 day inspection.

I've got some great deals off of that site and I don't mind a used gun ~ just seems they would at least try and accurately describe what they are offering. I'm kind of surprised GB doesn't monitor that more. As with other sites, I would not expect them to get very involved in a buyer/seller transaction past their commission.

 

[SaxonPig]

Evaluating has always been a matter of conjecture but "new in box" to me means the gun has not been fired, carried, or shows any handling marks at all. Ask the seller how he can possibly call a 95% gun NIB. Anything less than 100% is not new.

 

[481]

PRM,

SaxonPig makes a good point.

I keep the phrase "Caveat Emptor" in mind when viewing Gunbroker auctions much as I do when undertaking any other transaction.

Ask lots (and lots!) of questions, ask for addtional photos of areas of concern and don't feel obligated to buy anything from anyone unless you are certain that all terms of the agreement will be honored (especially their inspection/return period) and that the gun is as it is described.

I've had only one problem with merchandise purchased there (pistol magazines described as NIB and the ones that I received appeared as if they had been stored in a working cement mixer for a few years) and when the seller balked at it's return, I notified the 'site management immediately and the seller became very compliant, very quickly.

 

[PRM]

I agree with both comments. I was just pointing out there seems to be a rash of listings recently that fall into this category.

When I see a vintage piece advertised as new in the box and then you look at the pics and they show an average or rough gun at best, it kind of makes you wonder if the site coordinator shouldn't be looking at whats listed. I am sure that's not in the budget and probably not a concern of theirs ~ but it does make you wonder, what are some people thinking. It's sure not getting repeat customers.