advice for buying online

[muddywings]

I've been using GB for years now and have had no issues. A good tip is to buy from someone who has no score... I know that goes against a lot of what people say, but everyone starts out at 0 in the beginning. Most people won't buy from someone with a 0 score which only helps you get a good deal.

twisted logic but I like it.

Anybody out there been scammed on the private seller? What do I look for?
I've purchased once through GB but it was a store. Honestly, the prices from these online stores isn't any better than I can get from the local guys (I think) when you factor tax vs FFL/Shipping.
So to me the only shot I'm looking at is used from a private seller that most likely isn't on there for a business startup. I guess I'm just worried about sending a cashier's check off and getting squirt gun in the mail.
(Granted I used the classifieds to buy a $2K mountain bike-then again, I was pretty sure they didn't use it to rob a liquor store).