Chris Schneck

There are a lot of good deals on paintball gear to be had when you buy second hand. Unlike retailers however, used paintball gear comes with no warranty and you have to be very careful. When purchasing a used marker online, it’s unfortunately very common for the used marker you buy off a stranger to come with more cosmetic damage then the seller specified, the marker might be missing parts, the marker might not be functioning or the marker might not show up at all. Here are a few suggestions to help prevent you from getting scammed.

When possible buy locally, better yet go to your local paintball store to see if theres anything on consignment.

If you have to pay for a marker first, try to avoid direct depositing money to the sellers account. If you have to mail your cheque or money order first, send it by certified mail that requires a signature, that way you can prove to the local law enforcement where the money was sent and who received it.

Never ship to a P.O. box.

Always require a signature upon delivery when shipping anything.

Always insure your packages for an accurate amount.

Always fill out customs forms accurately.

Never ship anything across the border as a ‘gift’. If you try to complain to Canadian or American law enforcement about a cross border scam and you have marked it as a ‘gift’ you’re S.O.L.

When possible, involve a reputable paintball store before you finalize the purchase. Have the retailer check over the sellers goods ( at your cost ) to verify that they are what the seller says they are and that everything is in the state that the seller claims it to be. This might cost a little more $, but it would be worth it.

If someone sends you a cheque or money order for MORE then the agreed upon selling price, contact the local police immediately. This is a well known scam where the ‘buyer’ wants you to take your cut and send him the difference with the goods you’re selling. You’ll find out later that his money is no good, and you’re out you’re paintball gear and whatever surplus money you mail him.

Before buying or selling online call your local Better Business Bureau or local law enforcement for additional tips on protecting yourself.