It seems like the pattern for these scammers are similar, very few posts in the discussion forums, sell/buy a couple dozen knives to gain trust and give the impression they are stand up folks. Then after several months, scam people.
What I've learned from this ordeal is that for new members, whether they like it or not, is to pay with a money order and wait to have the knife shipped. This will apply if I'm selling a knife. If I'm buying a knife, they'll have to ship it to me first and then I'll send them a money order.
It's not fool proof, but it's better than having my PayPal account frozen until things are sorted out. It may seem a bit steep, but, some of the new members are forcing the great people here to protect themselves.
Trustworthy members are another story, I've made several deals with
P
Peter Hartwig
and I've shipped to him waiting on funds. I've done this with several members as well. So, there's no doubt when you're dealing with a person that has morals and a conscience, there will be no issues and if there is, it can be worked out. I've had a couple knives returned because of B.S. reasons. Such is life.
The way I feel about it, is that if new members are not willing to adhere to established members practices, then they really don't need to be here.