I've bought several guns online over the past several years - no problems ever, and I would never have found exactly what I wanted any other way (I like obbball stuff).
I've only ordered 2 guns online (28-2 6" and 17-4 6") and was happy with both. For me, it's important to only buy guns online if there are plenty of pictures and description as well as positive feedback from other buyers from that seller.
I believe the OP was referring more towards many FFL's glaring lack of knowledge on firearm handling. Examples of what I believe the OP is talking include, but are not limited to FFLs dry firing .22lr revolvers, swinging the cylinder and slamming it shut, and handling old blue finishes with dorito fingers and not wiping them down. In short, being an FFL doesn't mean one is immune to dropping someone else's gun on the concrete floor.
I believe the OP was referring more towards many FFL's glaring lack of knowledge on firearm handling. Examples of what I believe the OP is talking include, but are not limited to FFLs dry firing .22lr revolvers, swinging the cylinder and slamming it shut, and handling old blue finishes with dorito fingers and not wiping them down. In short, being an FFL doesn't mean one is immune to dropping someone else's gun on the concrete floor.
I have bought dozens of guns on line and dozens FTF from dealer or privately. I have never had to return a gun or had a single issue with an on line sale. Good pictures, reputation of seller and read the entire ad is the formula for no anxiety on-line buying.