Like buying anything online, buying an airsoft gun online can be confusing and a bit scary. As you look through the listings on eBay, you see the same gun offered by different vendors at different prices and shipping is $4 from one vendor and $24 from another.

Shipping cost can be a key to evaluating the honesty of an eBay seller. If they are selling an airsoft gun for 99 cents and shipping is $20, chances are pretty good that you are getting a $10 airsoft gun for $20.

Beware of a retailer that puffs up shipping costs. The reason they do that is to get around paying the proper eBay final value fees. If the retailer is actively trying to steal from eBay, do you really think they won't from you?

The meaning of FPS: Feet per second. Many vendors of airsoft guns make claims that their airsoft gun is firing at 385 feet per second. Then they list the item for $50 to $100. Be wary of claims like this.

When you see a claim that doesn't ring true -- any spring-powered airsoft gun shooting more than 270 fps and costing less than $100 for instance -- check it out before you buy. Go to airsoft forums and talk to airsoft players and dealers. Feel free to ask us at WarriorCat's Airsoft Armory about a product you might question. Arnies Airsoft is another good resource and google will give you many many more.

Simply put, if a retailer is making false claims or committing final value fraud, you really should rethink making your purchase from them.

Have fun, stay safe -- always wear your eye protection when playing and only play in secured, designated areas under adult supervision.