So long as your eyes are wide open with sense rather than greed, then it's great.
Check what you are buying, look up comparitive prices on the other web sites and DON'T bid just to win. Set a maximum and stick to it. If it's not a well-know branded item be careful and if any doubts, contact the seller and ask.
I've only had two stings, both with lures. One I didn't read properly and it said "Rapala <u>styled</u>" and it was a load of rubbish so I lost £6. Another I KNEW it was a fake Rapala and bought it for £4 including P&P. I told the seller andhe admitted he was taken in as I proved to him that the "Rapala" sticker on it had been scanned and printed on a standard label. Why did I buy it? Well, the nice people at Masterline who import Rapala had sent me a free sample of braid and I told them about the fake - doin a favour in return if you like.
Otherwise, I have bought a £60 branded rod for £12.50, a £140 reel for £50, a £120 rod for £70, other lures galore all at bargain prices. I AM HAPPY WITH EBAY!
Just be careful and don't bid more than you can afford to lose, but note also what Evan the WELSH WINDBAG says. pay by Paypal, it gurantees you.