Classifieds or Retailer?

[L473ncy]

Never been burned by a seller but I do my research and get all the info before purchasing. Most defects I'll know about before jumping in. eg. My GBB's frame was cracked but it doesn't really affect function.

[Captain Banzai]

Originally Posted by Debrief

Classifieds can also be great for "beginners" packages, i.e. a gun with magazines, batteries, optics, and the occasional gear. They're a great way for new guys to get completely ready to game in one package. If you're buying from a user with a 100% trader rating and is honest and detailed in his posts, you shouldn't have a problem.

The classifieds also have a degree of competitive pricing. Retailers will sometimes have a monopoly on a particular item (i.e. newly released GBBRs), and items on the classifieds tend to be quite cheap in order to attract a sale.

+1 to this.

I got a CA full metal MP5 with four lowcaps, and the highcap that came with the gun. Full package for a great starting price an excellent gun for a beginner like myself.

The seller had a perfect trader rating and I asked some players who I skirmished with for their opinions on the gun itself.

Do your own research, it will only help you make the best choice.
Just don't rush it, take your time and even try to compare similar offers on the classifieds if possible.

If you're fortunate enough to have a local seller, try to arrange a meeting.
Bring your goggles or mask to see how comfortable you would be sighting it.
You want to do everything you can to have your first game be as fun as possible.

Good luck and happy shopping.

[Kuro_Neko]

Alot of people here are ragging on the Classifieds. I've bought three aeg's, two grenade launchers and a gbb off the classifieds: two stock TM's (mp5sd5 and mp5k), my upgraded CA m15a4, a CA m203, a G&P gp-35 and a KJW m9. I am perfectly happy with all of them, great deals. The only thing I would advise buying new is things that hold gas (mags, grenades), they're finicky things that need to be babied and there's no guarantee used ones have been. That said, I have bought the bulk of my gbb pistol mags used and have had no issues. You just need to do your homework. Research the item, research the seller, and ask for specific details on the item's history and condition.

What a previous poster said about cheaper items is true, the higher quality the item the more-likely it has held up to previous use. Also the higher the quality the more expensive the initial price tag and thus the more likely the previous owner took pains to take care of it. I've sunk over $1000 into my baby and I'd rather get shot then take a dive that would potentially damage her.

Another thing to remember is if the price tag looks too good to be true, it probably is. An ad for a TM or such for $100 is either a scam or one seriously beat-up weapon. That said there are some really good deals in the classifieds. Sometimes people need cash quick, especially around xmas time. Knowing which is which comes back to homework.