They say a new car hits 'used' status within 5 minutes of leaving the car lot. There's so many options for used gear...music stores, online forums, ads, Internet auctions...
Some of the Internet options are controversial, since scammers exist in large numbers! Bad guys-scammers, same thing!
Does it make sense to buy from a music store after you've d'used' equipment, and you've carefully looked for cracks, dents, missing paint, and signs of mods?
Probably.
Are there music stores in your area that carry a good selection of used gear?
Probably not.
Sure, you might live in a large metropolis, but there's lots of store traffic, and people calling them to check the selection. Like a used car, every piece of music gear is unique in the way that it has been treated, or abused! Have you ever sold equipment that had a problem or two?
This is not meant to change your mind from buying 'used' gear. It does make sense to look over an item in person. With that in mind, auction sites have led to disappointment (or bad deals) for some, and a return policy is important. 100% positive forum or ebay feedback is a good thing!
Let the buyer beware is a cautionary expression, and thus, we have been warned!
