Chuck ---
You are correct in that I can't find any "rules" either. Do you ask the question as a buyer, seller or both? As a buyer, you are basically correct. When there's an offering, read all the comments, ask questions and only then seriously commit to buy.
Payment is usually made by PayPal or Google to the GB seller. Then you wait for sufficient orders and shipping.
HMike
and yes, Rob is correct to ask Scopeguy20 or other sellers. Glenn (Scopeguy20) will help you.
I 3rd the use of Glenn (would be bad if I didn't as my 1.2W labbie will be in his hands )
He is a great guy and answers all questions within 4 hrs most of the time I think he lives at the computer
I 4th that. You can get alot of info from him.
Though if your the buyer, it could be a few weeks before Glenn's next GB as the current one closed only a few days ago (the requests part, we are now in the order/testing/shipping part).
You will save a lot of money by doing this, and your guaranteed a laser up or over spec as much as you trust the seller.