I've known of plenty of people who have ordered international and received quality gear with no problems and decent prices.

I've also been burned before buying domestic.

Never be too sure of your source. Even if you've gone through them 10 times before and have had good experiences, the 11th time might be the time they decide to scam you. Or they might just have bunk shit without even knowing it.

It's the black market. Never trust anybody in it. Regardless of who you buy from, I'd keep your orders small and just place a second order for whatever else you need AFTER your first order comes in. That way, if they burn you (and they could also be customs), you're out $400 instead of $800.