You don't know what you get.

I just purchased a reel the seller indicated was new, the picture of it on the ad showed it in the package.

The reel arrives, and I go to take the reel out of the package, and I note that someone else has also gotten in to the packaging. And, when I pull the reel out, it's not only been used, it still has line on it!

My experience with ebay has generally been positive. However, I've been stiffed (paid for but didn't get my items) once, almost stiffed another time (I had to call them repeatedly to get them to send the item), had used items represented as new, and have had great experiences.

It's a risk dealing with someone you don't know for an item they may not have? What's your recourse if they don't deliver?

However, with that said, I'll continue to buy things on ebay. But, it's a calculated risk.