If the Terrordrome is something that you want in really good shape, then I'd say know this when you buy it from Ebay or anywhere online, especially when the item must be shipped to you:
- there is always the disappointment of finding out that it differs from the pictures showing the actual item (cause: damage during transport, dishonest seller who ommitted to describe accurately the item, stock or generic pictures, etc);
- If the item is outside of Canada and if the value exceeds 60CAD, chances are good that you will pay duty fees, import taxes, and especially a brokerage fee if you're using a courrier company such as Fedex;
- Shipping cost in some cases could exceed the price of the item, which makes it a less attractive perspective depending on the actual value of the item;
- And last but not the least there is always a chance that the item could never show up (gets lost in the mail, fraudulent seller, act of God, etc).
If you are the type of person who must absolutely see the item in person in order to decide if it's worth your attention, especially when a big piece like the Terrordrome is concerned, then I suggest you look up on classified ads, local collector stores, going to Gi joe conventions (like the canjoecon). I did see two terrordromes in my last 4 years of attending the Canjoecon, so I'd safely say that conventions are the best way to go. Not only do you increase the chances of finding the right stuff, but you'll also make new friends and....enemies. Just kidding! Just friends of course!
Also, there are many great sponsors who are cool members here that can help you out too and I can easily vouch for each and one of them, as they are all very professional and trustworthy.
Ebay could become one of the good places to look for one down the road if everything else fails, or if you find a too good deal you don't want to miss, especially if the Terrordrome that you're bidding on or purchasing with the "Buy-It-Now" option is:
- Near your area; and
- Seller accepts local pickup; or
- Seller's shipping cost is clearly stated;
Also, there is always the potential risk of landing on a scammer, so if you're buying something on Ebay, make sure:
- that you pay your winning with Paypal and;
- to verify that the item is listed with the paypal buyer protection program
Good luck!