I have also had my own FFL for my hobby and a small side business for years. Big savings overall.

I have bought over a hundred firearms from auctions online and have also had very good success. It definitely has a learning curve. My advice above sounds scary because it is easy to lose out if you are not prepared and know what you are looking for and looking at.

There are dishonest people everywhere, including the auction houses but I also have had mostly good experiences overall but have had a very few bad deals or dealers.

My discussion above is for op who is new to this and I am reinforcing advice of buyer beware. When things work out, though, enjoy the booty!