is there any way to recognize which listing is a scam ? and are there any ways to protect from being scammed after u already paid ?

Thank you.

I haven't yet bought anything on armslist.

there's one item I'm looking at that's being sold by an actual gun shop, so them I'd have higher confidence in than a private individual.

my thoughts on how I'd handle an out of state seller, assuming they're too far to visit in person to verify goods...

request LOTS of high quality pictures, with serial number(s) visible. newspaper with date visible is also a plus.

find out what FFL he'll be shipping it out of (do NOT accept them shipping it themselves, regardless of the laws), make contact with them and arrange to have them be a broker for the deal (expect to pay for this... I was figuring $20 for them to be the ones handing over the check to the seller.)

beyond that use common sense. if it's too good to be true it probably is.

don't buy off armslist unless its local FTF. There's just to many horror stories of people getting ripped.

 

Use Gunbroker and check peoples feedback if you must.

I bought a pistol from someone out of state off arfcom.  Went fairly smooth until the guy went dark a day or so after he cashed my check.  He eventually assured me that the pistol had shipped and gave me a tracking number a couple days later.  I was scared shitless that I lost $500.  

 

I neglected to really look into the persons feedback on arfcom, which you could plainly see his communication was sub par.  I don't think I'll be trying an out of state sale again unless through a verified ffl or gunbroker.  Definitely, definitely check feedback.  

Roger. This is exactly why I'm asking >> I did several FTF and it was just fine but now this guy is in Richmond VA.... goes by the name Michael Hall, used live in NJ...

I probably gonna skip the deal cause it's just getting too complicated. Plus I really don't want to pay extra in the form of shipping, NICS, transfer fees and taxes ...

lol nvm .. went to ARMSLIST forum and found out that this guy is a known scammer

Flagged his listing

I've made approximately 15 purchases on Armslist. The only problem I ever had was when UPS lost my shipment. Took about a month to resolve. 

 

I've paid by personal check, PayPal. Safest of course are dealers, but most of my purchases were from private individuals.

 

You have to get to know the seller. I check them out fully: name, address, phone number. I ask for pictures and speak with them over the phone before sending them money.

 

There are numerous ways to tell if they're assholes. If they don't answer emails, don't answer the phone, won't give you their contact details, get annoyed and say "take it or leave it."

 

I'm actually long-distance friends with two sellers. Both great guys who alert me when they have one of my calibers.

also if you get pictures run them thru Google image to find out if the images are used some wheres else.

 

Also Google email address and other info to see results

I've sold a lot of stuff on armslist. But haven't bought anything. Meet face to face or use paypal. If they won't do either then don't do it

Can u guys do me a favor pls>>> go to this listing and flag it as a scam. No reason for somebody to get hooked

 

http://www.armslist.com/posts/3122886/nj-rifles-for-sale--arsenal-slr-101s-7-62-x-39-assault-rifle-

Other people just overvalue their stuff. Some guy wants to trade a mossberg slug gun for a hd gun. I offered my pardner pump for his 500a with a cheap scope. He told me his gun is valued at over 600. I showed him a gunbroker auction with his same gun at 259 buy it now with no takers. Lets see if that opens his eyes

The best way to avoid getting scammed is to not look for the rock bottom, lowest price, amazing deal. 

only FTF for me. with cash in hand. I usually meet at a range with ammo and a flashlight to inspect and test the firearm. If your uncomfortable with me inspecting, stripping and shooting it, I don't need it. enjoy the half hour on me.