Background: I've been a member with a previous profile since 2012 with perfect feedback (timesRchanging). I lost the time and inclination to trade for a couple of years due to work but then the trade bug got me. I started a new profile and have had positive encounters over the last few months. The landscape in members has changed dramatically. Honor and integrity were the cornerstone of exchanges.
Enter Maukyn. Despite having positive feedback, it only takes one person to do their homework.
He offered me an "unfired" RRA CAR-15 rifle in exchange for my Mini-14 with Samson A-TM stock. I accepted the trade, predicated on the fact that it was a FACTORY built rifle ONLY. We met and exchanged weapons. It was a positive encounter and I appreciate veterans (even ones that lean heavily on their service to demonstrate character). The next day I contacted RRA customer service with the serial number on the lower receiver. This was due to the fact that this "new" rifle had a Mil Spec buffer tube and RRA has never shipped rifles with anything but commercial buffer tubes. Maukyn claims to have no knowledge of swapping the buffer tube and never shot the rifle, so he has zero knowledge of its function. Oddly enough he did admit to swapping the stock and grip (so he knew it was a Mil Spec buffer tube). This individual is perfectly fine with misrepresenting an item for trade. This is called a lie.
As it happens, according to RRA customer service, it was NEVER a complete rifle. It left their factory as a stripped lower, of which I can prove. Every part in that gun was trash and nothing was an RRA part. The rifle would not cycle because the buffer spring was too short, not to mention the numerous fitment issues discovered when I took it to the gunsmith. When given the opportunity to show character and integrity to remedy the situation, Maukyn would not honor his word. This is very disappointing. Yes, trading is a gamble from time to time. Lesson learned. Now I have an upper and a non-serviceable lower that needs replacing. This shocking lack of accountability and deception is something I had never encountered before, nor have I ever misrepresented and item. Let this be a warning to future traders.