Hey..new to gunbroker..need a rundown on buying...

FHPtrooper

I was curious if anyone could give me insight on how i should prepare to bid/buy a gun on here..Cause i have absolutely NO idea other than i have to go to an FFL dealer..thx

nelchris

I would look hard at the seller.Talk on phone if possable
Then just jump in and start bidding. I start about 75-100 less then I will pay so I can bid in the end or just bid as much as you can spend first then forget about and if you win great

Welcome and have fun

goldslammer

You can click on "how to bid" there's a way to find an FFL dealer in your area. I would contact the dealer first to make sure he's still doing business and negotiate a transfer fee.

Der Gebirgsjager

When you find an item you like, read ALL of the print on the page carefully. It will describe the item, the cost for shipping, inspection/return period if any, etc. Once you bid on the item, if you are the high bid and win the item, you are required to go through with the purchase. Usually you will have to forward a certified check or money order, credit card number, use Pay Pal, etc. Some sellers will take a personal check and hold it until it clears. If you do not have an FFL or C&RL as appropriate, the item will have to be shipped to an FFL holder who will receive it for you and execute the paperwork (for which he will charge you an additional fee); unless the item is considered an antique (made prior to 1898) and is not subject to the requirements of the Gun Control Act of 1968. There is additional information posted on the auction website under "For Buyers". You will have to register on the site before bidding. Click on, and read, all of the information headings on the auction website, and visit some of the in-progress auction item sites, and you should develop a pretty good idea of what is going on.

FHPtrooper

Alright thanks for all your help ! [8D]

gskyhawk

every one else has given you good advice , the only thing I would add is to becarefull with your payment method, money orders from banks can have a stop payment put on them , postal money orders can not, so never use a money order from the post office, if your payment is of any size, then spend the little bit more it costs to send it with Delivery Confirmation on it , that way there is never any doubt that they ( the seller ) received it.
I personally like to use Priority mail, cost is around $4 to mail a letter with delivery comfirmation and it gets there fast ,, if I pay fast I expect to get fast turn around on their end also , Priority envelopes that hold a regular white envlope and the priority mail boxes are free from the post office just ask for them.
don't be afraid to ask question, if you're a serious bidder the seller won't mind answering them .. good luck and have fun

He Dog

You have great advice above, but especially, ask questions. We see complaints frequently from people who did not feel they got what they thought they were going to get, so ask, ask, ask. It is helpful to be familiar with what you are buying, ie what is original condition so you recognize if after market changes like recoil pads have been added and which affect value. If you don't know the material you are bidding on cold, have a good reference or two by your computer. Good luck, and Welcome aboard!

captkirk3@dslextreme.com

You've gotten Good information here on Ask the Experts...But this topic actually belongs on the General Discussion Forums......

Captain Kirk, Tech Staff