If you or someone you know are considering purchasing a new set of pipes on eBay to save money, Buyer Beware. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is! There are countless stories of people purchasing pipes thinking they have found a great deal through auction sites only to receive an inferior product.

There are many sets of Pakistani pipes listed on eBay. These pipes are often made of rosewood or cocus wood, not African Blackwood. You may also find that a set listed as "blackwood" may actually be another type of wood that has been painted black. Pipes from Pakistan are often poor quality. They often require hundreds of dollars worth of additional products and repair to get them playable.  (Playable does not always mean that they will sound good.)

Sometimes, you may find that the picture shows a maker stamp. While this can be a sign that you are receiving a quality set, make sure that you inquire further. A stamp on the chanter does not mean that the whole set is from that maker. Ask for close up images of the full set to ensure that you are getting a matched set of good quality.

Even on a good quality set, be aware that parts may have been replaced or repaired over time and may not be in the original condition. Ask for this information before purchasing.

It's not just Pakistani pipes that are questionable. There have been false claims from individuals misrepresenting quality pipe makers. If you do chose to purchase bagpipes on eBay, research your information before hand and make sure the seller will accept the bagpipes back if they do not meet your standards.

Not all sets that appear on eBay or any other auction or sale site are bad.  There can be good finds out there.  Just be sure to use caution before investing in a "good deal" that ends up being nothing more than a mantle decoration.