I Was Scammed Out of $15,100 | The SNAKEPIT Counterfeit Les Paul Story

*Update - 3-16-22 Paypal Refunds one of the $5k claims to make right the employee error.
They couldn't refund the 3rd since that extension message was only tied to one of the claims
**Important - Mr. Harrison was NOT the creator of this guitar and had nothing to do with it - see his hearted comment. This was a lie fed to me by the seller that he later admitted that he bought it from a different person contrary to his initial story. Also, I have no bad blood with CME or Gruhns. They are nice shops that just weren't able to assist me with this matter.
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📚 Description: I've held this story back for too long - it is time I share the tale of the biggest scam I ever fell victim to thanks to Paypal. The counterfeit Gibson Les Paul Slash Snakepit from 1997 full story.
🐕 Episode Guide:
0:00 - Intro - Check Links in the Description
0:26 - The Setup
1:23 - Winning the Auction
6:40 - Special Delivery
10:09 - Passing on the Curse
13:16 - Confrontation
19:08 - Next Moves
24:03 - Hunting the Source
27:37 - The Examination Results
32:17 - The Response
35:11 - Aftermath
40:30 - Hanging On
🎞️ Videos Mentioned:
0:01 Trogly's April Fools 2020 | $1 Toy Guitar Review | Trade Tuesday Season 3 E1
• Trogly's April Fools 2...
0:38 Les Pauls at the Grocery Store? Idaho Potato Contest Winning Entry!
• Les Pauls at the Groce...
4:36 Trogly's Guitars: 2004 Les Paul Standard Premium Plus - Flamed Back!
• Trogly's Guitars: 2004...
4:39 Trogly's Guitars: 1981 Gibson Leo's Les Paul - Prehistoric Reissue
• Trogly's Guitars: 1981...
6:47 Counterfeit 1998 Gibson Les Paul Slash's Snakepit
• Counterfeit 1998 Gibso...
7:21 Trogly's Guitars: 1981 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Cherry Sunburst
• Trogly's Guitars: 1981...
7:28 Is the NEW 2021 Original Collection 70s Les Paul Deluxe Worth Buying? | Review + Demo + Comparison
• Is the NEW 2021 Origin...
22:41 1980 B.C. Rich Bich 10-String Custom Order Dusty Stone Demo
• 1980 B.C. Rich Bich 10...
28:20 I Never Thought I'd See My Stolen Guitars Again | Trogly's Unboxing Vlog 53
• I Never Thought I'd Se...
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[@Trog]

Part 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmazm3pon66om8U For new viewers - I upload guitar content daily around 7pm EST. 🟢My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com 🔴Reverb: tidd.ly/4aFiyhC 🔵eBay: ebay.us/R9fACt ❓Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/

[@PC85X]

Thanks for sharing. I got scammed out of £3000 on a car. I was furious, and felt the same sort of shame of being such a mark, but now I use it as a life lesson. The best you can do with your story is help others as you do, and you probably accelerated your Gibson knowledge by this, and who knows how much that has saved you over the years. Cheers from Wales

[@TheBrianRaglandChannel]

Austin, this is really cool video I really enjoyed it and I watched it all the way to the end and gave it a like, BUT... I think "Slash" is a total Sleazy DIRTY Douchbag !!!.... to be honest and any of his guitars are kind of pointless but I enjoyed the episode thanks for sharing.

[@whitepepper8365]

Holy crap dude........it seems like I've waited forever to learn some of the specific details about this awful thing that happened to you, but it was worth the wait. When I first heard that you were scammed out of so much money, I was gutted FOR you. Infact.....whenever I hear a story about someone getting scammed in general, my heart sinks. But when I learn of a scam involving money AND guitars I also become enraged!!! Since I too have been the victim of a scam, I can relate to not wanting to drag up all of the details and emotions that are involved. Its painful to relive the experience, and no doubt embarassing to share it with others. I will never forget the scam that robbed me of a 98 USA Stratocaster and $5000,, but to finally hear your story in full let's me know, .......... that I am not alone. Thanks Austin

[@dareal9208]

Joe Walsh Welcome to the club a really good song on youtube Enjoy it

[@jaredb852]

Austin as always your content and presentation is amazing. I’ve been watching since the beginning keep up the great work.

[@Esrom_music]

The most unbelievable part of the story is having access to 15k on a grocery store job.

[@2204JCM]

…and owning a home in your early 20’s.

[@lukasgarage956]

Credit cards

[@markkus1134]

He was bidding against the owner of the fake guitar

[@pattyg5502]

Rich kids.

[@Brunnen_Gee]

@@jamesbeard Man I'm in my 40's and I've never had more than a couple grand at once...

[@wadeguidry6675]

You should have the Gibson Custom Shop build you a PayPal signature Les Paul.

[@HAL-zx1bw]

A F*ck PayPal guitar would be more appropriate!

[@TheWelhaven]

Les Pal?

[@paultonkin5093]

@@TheWelhaven Pay Paul haha

[@wadeguidry6675]

@@TheWelhaven lol, brilliant!

[@k5elevencinc0]

@@HAL-zx1bw Most definitely.

[@ColinWatters]

I can't imagine spending anything like that amount without travelling to see the item in person.

[@Ishl]

True, but we have to remember that he didn’t have any way to verify if the Guitar was legit since he didn’t have much to go off of at the time of the purchase.

[@Kakascrot]

@@Ishl Then don't buy it, if you're willing to take that risk though, you have to be able to suck it up when it turns out to be fake

[@stevee231]

I can't imagine buying anything from the custom shop. My guitars are how I make money, I need to play them. I don't trust Gibsons on the road (much less sinking 15k into one) although one of my 3 guitars is an 80s LP Custom but I've had it for years, it still isn't worth much as it isn't a desirable era but it does what I need.

[@AB-80X]

As much as you feel your pain, man, the amount of things you should have done differently is mind bending.

[@Seymourbutts-u1d]

Don't worry. He also charges people to ID guitars. This is what happens when someone decides to become a "guitar guy" with mom and dads money.

[@ExodusAttacKGR]

i feel my pain on my forhead from the total number of facepalms i comited during this video...he wanted to make some money he says... GET OUT!

[@stephensarmento3529]

​@@Seymourbutts-u1d you sound salty as fuck lmao. not a good look on you honestly

[@polarbear3427]

dont buy Gibson guitars.

[@Kidbucked]

Dude stupidly buys a bad guitar and wants everyone else to bail him out. YOU GOT SCAMMED

[@Dhop1000]

The scariest part about this is telling your wife what happened lol

[@phayzyre1052]

No joke! Had that been my wife I had to tell that to I would’ve woken up at a hospital in ICU with two black eyes and missing half my teeth!

[@haraldpettersen3649]

@@phayzyre1052 - 😂

[@jimihendrix991]

@@phayzyre1052 ...is your wife an ex NFL linebacker called 'Bob'?

[@Matt8284music]

This is a very real fear!

[@78kasper78]

I don't even have a wife. I would be afraid to tell my cat!@@Matt8284music

[@IAMDRREMULAKK]

50 years from now. Someone is gonna bring this guitar into Antiques Roadshow. And they're going to be told "We couldn't believe our eyes when you brought this in! This particular guitar has such an interesting story behind it! Because of the great condition you kept this in, along with all the documentation including original photos, and letters, and paypal case numbers, we estimate this guitar to be worth... $500,000 to $700,000. But because the little yellow cap to the toggle switch is gone, we can only give you about $10,000."

[@kenlieck7756]

Haha! I dragged a friend to a taping of Rock Collectors (the old VH-1 version of AR) with her copy of the Beatles "butcher cover" LP, which had been scribbled on in thick black marker by the young original owner, who had drawn fangs on Paul, glasses on John, and scrawled his own name across it. VH-1 aired the segment but believe or not, the appraiser announced that because the name defacing the album read "STEVIE R. VAUGHAN" (yes, *that* SRV) that "it wouldn't necessarily detract from the value"!!!

[@kenlieck7756]

@@YearsOVDecay1 It was years ago, I've lost my tape of it, that series has never been rerun and my friend is now dead. All I can remember for sure is that they seriously lowballed it...

[@phayzyre1052]

Only problem with that antiques roadshow series is they can appraise something to be a billion jillion zillion dollars but unless you find somebody willing to pay that price it ain’t worth jack! My mother had a clock that was a one of a kind built in Germany in 1880 and condition wise it was in very good condition but it needed some minor clock work done to it. The lady told my mother in the condition it was in would easily fetch $30,000. Thinking my mother had a nice little sum of cash she set out looking to fetch that amount or perhaps even around $25,000. The highest offer she got was some clock collector in Virginia offered her $7000 and that was it. She eventually got it fixed for a couple hundred dollars and she still has that clock. Moral of the story: don’t believe everything you see or hear on that antique roadshow nonsense. Of course I know you’re just using it as a hypothetical make a believe comparison but personally I think that show is one of the biggest scams going.

[@michaeldobson107]

@@phayzyre1052 It is true that any item is "only as valuable as what someone will pay for it," but with that said, those appraisals are for auction houses (the big ones) and not "some clock collector in Virginia." Plus, the auction house will take a 10% (or higher) fee off the top of the sale. So, if your item sells for $100,000, you will only walk away with $90,000 on which you will have to pay taxes at the end of the year on top of that, as that is considered income. Cheers.

[@michaelwirth6843]

The biggest question is, who in the hell wants to sound like Slash?!?

[@iam_niam]

😂😂😂

[@grahamhall2662]

I feel for you. I lost $100 on a camera lens and I am still reeling from the event 12 months later.

[@bigboyhours6473]

@@notfiveo it's a joke

[@despoticmusic]

I once put £1 into a slot machine in 10p pieces. I didn’t win…. 40 years later and I’m still traumatised. I’ve never played a slot machine since 😂😂😂

[@seblo8462]

Tell me about it, I lost $1,600 that was for mortgage and bills when I lost my wallet last year...a tip for anybody who carries their wallet in their rear pocket, just carry your wallet or anything important in your front pockets haha😅

[@whatilearnttoday5295]

To be fair any lens which costs $100 isn't worth buying.

[@newfreenayshaun6651]

​@@whatilearnttoday5295from one rich kid to another???

[@jackdarby6080]

The real scam is someone would actually pay $15,000 for such an ugly guitar!

[@andreathedy2422]

underrated comment

[@nekrohatred9547]

Big facts

[@phayzyre1052]

I have to agree! I don’t give a damn what signature series or whatever artist they used to make this guitar that snake design on it to me makes it look a little bit hokey! 🤨

[@gergnotsloh]

Yeah that guitar is hideous. When he was talking about maybe getting that Angus SG, I was thinking damn that thing at least looks halfway cool.

[@FUSIONJAZZMAN420]

Look at the hair on the bone on that ugly drawing. Ugh the worst.

[@t.c.harrison7511]

Yes - those are my photos from the Gibson Custom Shop, where Bruce and I made REAL Snakepit guitars. No, I have never made a fake one, nor have I ever sold one real or fake, to anyone, anywhere, ever. Please note that in your video, upfront, if you'd like to continue to use my photos.

[@Trog]

Thank you for chiming in. Later in the video I do clear your name but will add this to the description to clear up any confusion. I have other edits processing right now but will modify that part when I’m allowed to

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@Trog It’s great that you are always willing to do the right thing.

[@t.c.harrison7511]

If you look at the photo of me standing with the guitar (wearing those dopey shorts)....to the right of me you can see the back of a guy wearing a light blue t-shirt. That man is Bruce Kunkel. I have a pic of him holding the guitar as well. I can give you all kinds of additional info from this era of GCS if you are interested.

[@SemiDad]

@@Trog I picked up the insinuation of fraud even with the disclaimer. One lesson here is to immediately contact your credit card company one you suspect you’ve been conned.

[@nemonescit2780]

@@t.c.harrison7511 It's honestly disgusting how you're name is getting dragged all over the place in this video. Thank you for your great work at the GCS.

[@metalema6]

"I got scammed with a fake guitar" "I blurred the name to not be sued"

[@nicnewdigate]

We all got scammed with this KZbin video…

[@lifeisstr4nge]

Yeah, whats up with that

[@DETHMOKIL]

Dropping 15k on a blurry photo. KZbinr brain.

[@lifeisstr4nge]

These people exist

[@gr6060]

2 rules I always follow: Rule #1 - if I am interested in anything from a private seller that involves more money than I am willing to lose, I will not buy it unless I can see it, hold it, check it out IN PERSON. Rule #2 - see rule #1 !

[@BLKSG6]

Sounds like it still would have fooled him, he didn’t think it was fake until he tried selling it

[@kempmartin]

I totally agree with you. If it's too good to be true, it probably is. That should be Rule #2

[@Plockman29]

Rule 3, if something is being sold of value of above $50 and the seller is too lazy to use proper grammar and spelling, I don't trust it

[@gameonsucker7477]

So here's how the story ends, Slash got famous playing a counterfeit guitar. Let's get the community together to find out how we can get this guitar in Slashes hands and have him play it on stage and then it will be worth a lot more money and then you'll really get your money back. And on top of that maybe slash will actually give you a guitar from his collection. Slash has your back, you're providing a valuable service for the guitar community. Great content!

[@Ren505nm]

Slash would smash it on the ground and light that shit on fire.🔥🎸🔥

[@vintagebikes4215]

Dreams dreams dreams

[@timcarter1164]

That's a great idea.

[@petemitchell6788]

Slash wasn’t playing a counterfeit. He was playing a custom and never believed it was a Gibson. You rode the short bus that had the leaking exhaust manifold.

[@JohnPaulSheets]

@@petemitchell6788 I really hope you’re trolling because it’s fairly common knowledge that the Appetite guitar wasn’t a Gibson 👀

[@maxnits9556]

So the guy's business model is buying an old guitar, doing zero work whatsoever and immediately reselling it for twice the price? That's a scam in itself!

[@lifeisstr4nge]

Hes the real scammer 😂

[@craigjohnson4302]

Wow, what a story! All I did was watch the video and I'm completely exhausted! Sorry you got scammed, intentional or not. But, good for you in sharing this long and horrendous plight as I'm sure it will help others take the necessary steps to counteract something like this. All these companies that supposedly have their customer's best interest at heart, only do when it doesn't cost them anything. They're kind of like insurance companies. You religiously pay you premiums, then, when it's time for them to cough up what they promised you, they fight you at every angle. For the most part now days, guarantees are no longer guaranteed.

[@saleseng]

I thought I bought a fake Gibson once until a couple months later the headstock mysteriously cracked on it then I knew I had the real deal🤣

[@kenl.3298]

Sounds about right lol

[@Mr05Chuck]

Only Gibson I ever had had a headstock repair.

[@lifeisstr4nge]

😂😂😂😂

[@wrenchhead4378]

A wise man once told me “the best lesson you learn is one you pay for”…. He was a banker by the way….. it made you stronger in the end….

[@kevindean1327]

Agreed!!!

[@sagvjc2525]

Yup. Paying for college really made me appreciate and value education.

[@vanargrand3199]

I don’t see that. $15k is expensive for an arbitrary lesson.

[@bobsaturday4273]

no , it just made him more of an idiot than he was already

[@miquelmarti6537]

I'm also a collector and that made me feel extremly unconfortable. I always used Paypal just because of their Refund service. Maybe it's time to look for more secure alternatives. Thanks a lot for putting up all the info. What a journey (nightmare)

[@TheAustinGuy]

Yeah, never rely on them for anything larger than a few hundred

[@dysfunctionalism27]

I think what you should take away is to be more prepared when it comes to gathering evidence before escalating a case.

[@miquelmarti6537]

@@dysfunctionalism27 objection, statement calls for speculation

[@joekt22]

Paypal sucks ... I refuse to use them, they are useless tools hanging below my balls. Called your state AG and you may have got somewhere.

[@moonlime-io]

Oh yeah paypal is incredibly unsafe. They try really hard not to be a "bank" specifically to avoid regulations that apply to a real banks. I think it was like 2019 or so that even Ebay cut them off and setup their own payment system. Paypal had decided it wouldn't refund their fees for returned items anymore. You got Ebay final value fees back but Paypal also charged sellers like 3% and just decided that they would keep that even in cases of buyer fraud.

[@jasonking7729]

I really liked this story. I'm always entertained by pushing through the tape that most people give up on.

[@chiyo-chanholocaust8143]

"Me and my wife were very short on money, so I just bought this 15,000 dolar guitar"...I don't think you know what "short on money" actually means

[@Bridging_the_Political_Divide]

So true.

[@ThePoushal]

White privilege in a sentence

[@jusztinnemeti6380]

Heartbreaking. A scammer, eBay and PayPal have gotten me before too. I lost about $600 and it was awful. I can't imagine losing $15k (or $10k). Thanks for sharing your tale of woe.

[@michaelrountree7204]

These days people are ruthless

[@Antipodean33]

Yeah paypal got me too for a bit over $300, trying to get it back from them was impossible

[@cygnus1965]

Pay pal sucks. I know so many people they have scammed for hundreds. No wonder the PayPal mafia are all so rich. Got me for $600 and change many years ago. Will never use them again.

[@scotsman6712]

@@Antipodean33 just closed my Paypal account today because of their policy about stealing 2500.00 from the accounts of anyone posting 'misinformation'.

[@Jreb1865]

@@scotsman6712 I've lost money to them also. Closed my account years ago... I first used eBay in 1998...

[@NikoBased]

If I was PayPal, I wouldn't want to eat the cost of this. You were way too naive, and I don't know why PayPal is responsible for that. You're dealing in custom guitars in the 10's of thousands of dollars, and never had a course of action in the event somebody ripped you off. You sort of just made it up as you went, and hoped PayPal and your banks would just give you the money back for your own naivety. Not trying to be rude, but that's the way I would have looked at it. When the people being scammed are young or elderly I'm a little more empathetic. You seem like a nice guy, and I'm sure you learned a lot of valuable lessons through the process of obtaining this guitar.

[@danielfree7822]

wow. Why in the world would you spend that kind of money without clear photos. it screams scam from the very start

[@royfablooo2810]

Man I can't imagine Being scammed in the 80's to early 2000's without no internet you basically just got scammed. I feel the pain to those people.

[@ROOKTABULA]

Spending over $3,000 on any guitar is pretty much lunacy.

[@stefanfilipov7254]

Yeah. If you aim to get the most value in actual quality. Like the material used and engineering...

[@garyhoffman503]

Jedi ✝️

[@lyleswan6671]

Agreed, unless you're David Gilmour.

[@Michael-cj9uo]

not if you're treating it like a business and selling it on

[@aholder4471]

Yeah, unless there are other people willing to pay more, then it's just business. And the world is full of lunatics willing to spend way too much money on stuff. Being an American, I feel like people in other parts of the world think we are all stupid and rich. I would say most of us in reality aren't rich at all. And I don't think they even bat an eye to scam us because of this. This has led to some person in some other country stealing my Netfilx account and literally watching it on a better TV then I can afford. I hate hackers and scammers. I love people that hack hackers and scam scamers.

[@moosedog2u]

4K you'll make the numbers you need soon. Love your show. I bought a couple of Leo Jaymz guitars, Radient Red ( Big Red is my name for it). I just recieved my Cherry Burst last week, it's absolutely beautiful. Now, I'm waiting for the Dark Blue LP style to show up, hopefully soon. Thanks for sharing some great info. ,and your right ,it's a sickness, thanks to you , I'm going to get at least a few more Leo's . Thanks man ,rock on😊

[@user-JamesRowe51502]

Holy moly I have never seen any more ads in my entire life for one video

[@debomb721]

Gotta make back that 15,000$ somehow

[@jamesong.a.7695]

The warning signs were there.. Mexico, no reserve price on extremely high value item that also requires international shipping cost, zero positive feedback over previous 12 months, Mexico.. then requesting $19,500 but instantly agreeing to $15,100 “if paid now”.. I would’ve guessed stolen if not counterfeit

[@danparry834]

Why is Mexico a warning sign?!

[@Frip36]

Because Mexico. @@danparry834

[@dank7256]

​@@danparry834😂😂😂😂😂

[@cwang6951]

​@@danparry834 don't buy anything of great value from poor areas, in our own cities too. More motivation to scam.

[@dennismetzger9287]

​@@danparry834... why do you think...

[@grumpyoldrockers1048]

My brother, I wish you were my therapist. You have ALWAYS been a stand up guy. I had a Les Paul that you were so gracious on giving me information about. Always professional, courteous and kind to others such as myself. I can't imagine losing 10 grand much less my sanity over something like this. You are a saint.$10,000 to me is like a million to someone else, as I barely get by. You are my new hero. Thank you for this video and showing that we are all fallible.. I'm sure it could have been worse. God bless you my brother

[@Sonicstillpoint83]

Wow! This really helps in A way that I imagine is very hard for others to understand. I too was scammed out of $15,000 let me to a career in IT with a focus on cyber security. I want to make sure that no one is able to prey on anyone who doesn’t understand technology. I took up a hobby to learn how to physically protect myself and to mitigate damage and prevent injury. Bless you for this upload.

[@5argetech56]

33:23 - I laughed my Tush off at that response animation!! What... *WHAT* ! 😂😂😂😂

[@MC-bn8m]

This was a well done video. It kept my interest. My favorite part is at the end when you come to the realization that although you were royally screwed, you somehow are ok with having a very unique replica. In other words, you are now able to see value in something that had no value when you were blinded by your anger. I get pissed when they forget to add ketchup packets to my fast food order…I can only imagine how you felt. Thanks for sharing.

[@gearjammin_bluesman]

The bad experience made you a better businessman. Be proud. I'd personally keep the guitar. It's iconic to how you started your show. Too many of us have sold things we wish we would have never sold. Don't let this be one of those stories. Trust is tough in the musical instrument business. Many of us have been scammed including myself and watching your show has helped me tremendously spot so much recently when searching for a guitar. For that, I'm grateful for people like you. Perhaps someday I'll be one of your customers because we NEVER forget those who take pride in being honest.

[@williamacuna3996]

Man.....I chafed and just shook my head throughout this whole video! I feel so bad for you and everything that you went through. I had an issue with a fake Fender guitar neck, and after pointing out the discrepancies, eBay refunded me the money, and the seller said "just keep the neck." I also had an issue once with PayPal that left a bad taste in my mouth but of course, never to the tune of $15,000+. Well I thank you for posting this very elaborate and well-documented video as a heads up and warning to other buyers. God Bless, best of luck in the future, and I hope that you someday get what you put into this, including all of the aggravation that you suffered!

[@DJI-mini3]

Wow! what a story. I can see how you got roped in and your lack of familiarity with that particular guitar compounded the issue somewhat. I personally, although not a dealer, would have forensically compared the fake with an original at the first hint of doubt about its authenticity, I mean we're talking a lot of money here. The only consolation as far as I can see, was the 5k refund from one of the cards used to finance it. I would also been extremely aware of Paypals time-sensitive claims procedure, but I would have definitely sued them, you would have won but do understand why you didn't, as the whole thing must of taken a huge toll on you, embarrassed yes, humiliated yes, wanting closure, absolutely, but you was still out of pocket by 10k. As you say, 20-20 hindsight is all well and good, and you learnt some valuable lessons which must have helped you going forward. Great (albeit sad) story, though, thanks for posting it.

[@zambufly1]

I bought some fake Fender guitar picks once. I was out $2.68. Lesson learned.

[@debomb721]

You should make a KZbin vid about it to make some money back from it

[@musclecarmitch908]

Awesome episode Austin! Sorry this happened to you, I too was scammed on a vintage car part on the internet once, I know how bad it feels. But it seems this may have been a blessing in disguise, you have learned so much from this and it has pushed you to grow into the guru of guitars that you are today! I really enjoyed this episode! Sorry it was from a misfortune.

[@James-mx1pr]

Bro did not need to make this a 42 min video w chapters💀

[@APPEALtoFEAR]

I couldn't agree more. Stuff like this is starting to drive me nuts. There are so many KZbinrs who really need to learn what editing is. I don't want to watch a video about one specific KZbinr that is longer than the extended cut of the Lord of the Rings The Return of the King. There are only a very small amount of people who can make a 3+ hour long video interesting and not boring as hell. There is almost no reason why a video like this should be any more than 15 minutes long.

[@Syncopator]

About 45 years ago I met a guy who worked in the Rickenbacker factory. He had constructed a guitar under the table at the factory which he then "liberated". So it seems that it might not be all that uncommon for guitars to make it out of the factory that are very close but not quite legit. Clearly someone went to a lot of trouble to do the inlay and paint job on that Snakepit, someone who had some insight and talent and maybe access to parts and tools.

[@KrisDiKascos]

On the one hand, I'm really sorry that you had to go through all of that. With such a large amount of money involved, I can't even imagine how stressful it was for you. On the other hand, my god what a fascinating video to watch! I've been after an original 80's Jackson Soloist for a while but I always get too nervous about whether they're genuine or spliced.

[@saltpeter7429]

Good luck for the Jackson soloist hunt, that sounds awesome. I would be happy to get my hands on a modern pro series myself, lol. I have an 08 Japanese dinky, that I love with all my heart. Once I played a Jackson neck I dont want anything else.

[@KrisDiKascos]

@@saltpeter7429 I love Jackson's, they're my favourite. I have seven of them myself... 3 Dinky's, 2 Rhoads, 1 JS and a Minion Bass.

[@danrodrigues3531]

I understand that Paypal needs to have claims closed promptly but when you're dealing an amount like $15,000 then I think that a little leeway should be granted especially when they are requesting that YOU produce very specific legal details about the product in your claim. Even if it was closed what is the issue with reopening the damn thing? This wasn't a couple of hundred dollars, it was thousands. I've been intending to close my paypal account and this video inspired me to do so.

[@ickymouth]

Proper should take priority or prompt when the situation could carry significant repercussions

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

he took 5 months before he made the claim....and then got a long ass extension. Its his own fault

[@ickymouth]

@@Shadow0fd3ath24 I didn't get the impression that he was placing blame, simply expecting them to live up to the agreement, as in the 2nd extension, not doing so was in bad faith to say the least. Anyways, since you started it and I'm here now Iam gonna blame you, it's always the stupid ones! Who else puts corporate needs in front of a brother. Btw, don't bother clapping back or some dumb shit, this was a love tap and only cause you asked for it

[@TheSteelerider]

Why should PayPal have to pay for his mistake? All they do is facilitate the transfer of money.

[@qua7771]

@@TheSteelerider Because it's part of their terms of service to provide protection, and help with claims. That's one reason for using a service such as theirs rather than making a direct payment.

[@davidmcintire1462]

I have a fake Snakepit. I bought it in a guitar shop located in a flea market. I had never heard of the Slash Snakepit. I looked it up Online after I bought it. I found out that it was a fake by the Custom Shop logo on the head stock. The inlayed O in the word "SHOP" was off center. The serial number on it is SL 038. I still bought it knowing that it was a fake because it was a cool guitar, and also to get it off of the market. It looked good and played good. It was worth the 500.00 that I gave for it. I'll give it to one of my grandkids along with my other guitars. This video is a very good reference piece for anyone who has a Slash Snakepit, or a Fake Snake like I do. Thanks for the video!

[@wayneharmon4092]

Wow! So well done, Austin. The worst I was ever scammed was back in around 2000 when I paid around $65 for the first season of "The Sopranos". Almost instantly, after buying, I knew it was a scam and I remember that sinking feeling of despair and anger and embarrassment. I can't even begin to imagine what you must have felt as your joy of having this "Snakepit" signature turn into utter dread when you realized it was not the real thing. Perhaps the wealth of knowledge and insight, that this experience has given you, has paid great dividends in all of your subsequent dealings, but what a hefty price to pay for that education. Thanks for this!

[@leonardhpls6]

How was it a scam? That sinking feeling is awful

[@tylernewton7217]

Very well told story. First video of yours I’m seeing. I know it was a lot of money, but sometimes life’s most valuable lessons end up costing this much money. I’ve had similar experiences learned the hard way and I must say, with time you end up appreciating the knowledge gained more than the money lost. After all - you won’t ever fall for something like this again! Subscribed and liked! Cool content.

[@MisterRorschach90]

So wait, it’s a Gibson custom shop right? If I called the Gibson custom shop right now with an unlimited budget and asked for a rush order version of that guitar, would they make it? Or do they refuse to make more of special run guitars like that? I have always been under the impression that you can basically get anything you want as long as they can actually make it.

[@donttalktome4696]

The biggest mistake you made was not driving the guitar to Nashville yourself. That was way too much money on the line too trust anyone haha

[@TSoneonetwo]

trust but, verify. I worked for GC many years ago. one night, the manager and one of the the salesman stayed past closing with a customer looking to buy a vintage strat. he was making them remove the pickguard, and neck in order to verify its authenticity before finalizing his purchase. the ultimate question in these types of transactions is not whether the seller is trustworthy. the question is, is it really what it is claimed to be. the seller may genuinely believe it is authentic, and thus be honest...and you still end up like you did. truth is Trogly, you did not get scammed, per say. you failed to take responsibility for your own business, and tried to take an easier route by trusting without verifying. tough lesson son.

[@mjh5437]

@@TSoneonetwo *per se*

[@edsnotgod]

@@mjh5437 Grammer notsee

[@mjh5437]

@@edsnotgod *Grammar*

[@squirlmy]

@@TSoneonetwo what the hell is the point of a lecture now? Do you feel like a big smart guy now? Seriously man, if you're just going to twist the knife, think twice and just don't post. You have nothing valuable to say here.

[@ckac730]

This is an insane story. It's amazing to listen to you go through it and I appreciate all the detail you provided like the interactions with the appraisers, the confusion over the maker's name and the hassles from PayPal. It's amazing Citi helped and you are right to highlight their assistance. Can't wait to learn more.

[@gratefulpipeandcigar3239]

Wow! You must be commended for this video/story. People get scammed. It’s really unfortunate, but it happens. You’re possibly helping a lot of people who feel that shame and defeat.

[@78kasper78]

For real. It is always seems embarrassing for the person getting scammed, but the embarrassment belongs on the person doing the scam only.

[@gratefulpipeandcigar3239]

@@78kasper78 yes!

[@TheOnlyKtulu]

The sheer fact that you were willing to edit such a video to the tiniest detail 😂😂😅😅😆🤣

[@buttkrusher]

Austin, I also sorry you got scammed, but be happy in the fact that this provided the best video you've ever done. My wife and I were entranced by this story, and I personally think the way you told the story in chapters was brilliant (and I have a 30+ year career in broadcast television). And if I were you I'd hang onto that guitar, because even if it is a fake, it's going to be the most famous fake on the internet, which in turn will drive up the value! Great vid, Austin, and kudos to your video editor!

[@charlesbolton8471]

I completely agree, and it will prevent a fake from being used to scam someone else.

[@voyager7]

Actually that's a really great point. Trog's prestige on this medium and the sincerity with which he has established that prestige, means the story on this guitar will make it significantly more valuable $$-wise than the remaining $10k approx that he's out on it. I know that wasn't his intent but karma (good karma in this case) is in his future!

[@eddiejr540]

AGREED....well said!!!!!

[@upload2352]

Agreed - my wife hates videos about guitars even more than she hates guitars, and she couldn't look away as Austin's tale unfolded. Good story, well presented, with excellent production values, photos, inserts, printed material, etc., that really helped to tell the tale. Among all of his other activities, Austin managed to write/support/produce, and star in, a 40 minute TV program that people watched to the end. Truly talented. He's getting the last laugh, on this one. Separately, it wasn't clear to me that Mr. Harrison was adequately exonerated in the video, and others may conclude a question remains. If this was my video, and I wanted to give due justice to Mr. Harrison, I would pin his comment to the top.

[@hurdygurdyguy1]

Yep, he should keep the guitar.... or, rather I suspect his wife is forcing him to keep it to remind him every time he looks at it what he did to the household finances! As far as it becoming the most famous fake on the internet and making the guitar more valuable? Naw, the money involved in the buying and reselling of fakes in the Fine Art market far outstrips this...lost $10,000 on a fake guitar? That's pocket change..

[@smokestackstudiosgem]

PayPal representatives hang your heads in shame. I’ve had to deal with them and it’s the worst service I’ve ever had. If they don’t refund you the remainder after seeing this, and they will see it, they are the lowest of the low. I’m sorry that happened to you Austin. All the best from Downunder🎸

[@sejrec56]

We totally appreciate your honesty about getting scammed etc.

[@justsomeguy1074]

No guitar should cost that much in the first place!

[@BibotoMusic]

Imagine if it was real. He could sell it for 99k today. Not for me, I'm happy with my $500 tele.

[@buttkrusher]

Austin, I commented before, but I wanted to add this; I bought a Gibson Les Paul Studio (2009, Port Wine w/ gold hardware) off ebay. I got a really good deal on a beautiful guitar, so good that for years I was afraid it was a fake. Well, thanks to you I finally cracked that sucker open and verified all the electronics and am very happy to have an authentic Gibson. Yeah, it's not their top model, but I'm a shitty player so it's good enough for me!

[@Trog]

Enjoy it!

[@acemechanical275]

I don’t think you’ll find too many fake studio models.

[@wesleyalan9179]

I have the same guitar you're speaking of...its from 97' I payed 600 for it at a pawn shop

[@bryonkidder6199]

@@Trog T.C. Harrison is the Gibson employee you're looking for, he's on Facebook. He says he built the Ace Frehley Budokan prototype for the KISS Reunion Tour. He says Ace didn't like the gold hardware he put on the first prototype...lol

[@mariotorres4232]

Wow! What a story and great video with all that evidence. You seem to be very resourceful and it just makes me smile that the guy who actually built the originals would be so attentive and detailed in his points. It sucks that this happened but it's great to shed some light in what someone could do if this ever happened to to them. The internet thanks you for that.

[@kuriaki71]

What an amazing story. I couldn’t stop watching, I was hoping everything worked out for you.

[@goblinondrums]

Wow really well done video man. Had to keep watching to see the end result.

[@porchestra]

A bitter lesson to learn at the beginning of your venture, but it was only just a bad start to an otherwise successful channel. So glad you’ve moved on, Trogly.

[@johnmilner4778]

This is one of the lessons that you used to build your business on....consider it tuition. Sorry for your loss, congratulations on having a unique set of skills, insights, motivations and honesty as a result. This might be what differentiates you from every other guitar reseller in the world.

[@kenrobinson8522]

HOLY.. I would never be able to talk about it. Good for you making the video.

[@AB-wy7dr]

I think the biggest lesson here is - if you’re ever about to buy a guitar on THREE CREDIT CARDS that you will be unable to payoff (and therefore paying monthly interest payments on…)… please don’t do that. Please…. I’m begging you…. Don’t.

[@monsterram6617]

Everything about this screamed SCAMMER!!!! I'm amazed that you even went through with this.

[@classicrockguitar8084]

Right? Its hard to sympathize with the guy when there were so many red flags from the get-go. Especially considering this guy seems to have "experience" trading guitars. Severe lack of good judgement. Also, when you have a house, a wife, etc. and you spend 15k that you don't truly have is utterly foolish. Regardless, thank you for sharing your story and I hope this experience educates you and others to be more careful.

[@hixxy2069]

@@classicrockguitar8084 you do realize this story took place over 5 years ago? it’s not as if he had the same experience as he does talking now, and obviously he was making enough money to do this, or he wouldn’t be making this story, now would he?

[@jasonm1690]

@@hixxy2069 no excuses.

[@Skeeterguy24]

Wow, thanks for sharing the story! This should be a chapter in an e-commerce business\marketing book. I especially loved the animation of the Trogly dragon animation as it sat by the screen in anticipation and the rage when the credit request was turned down.Keeping the guitar is probably a good idea. Even Cesaer was reminded that all of fame is fleeting when he returned victorious to Rome....

[@hkguitar1984]

Ditto Also, that dragon turning red REALLY conveyed the emotions at that point in the story.

[@the4thway51]

Theres quite a few PayPal stories of customers being dumped after a scam. The buyer is confronted with a bunch of hidden rules, the scammer plays for time and PayPal says its too late to claim.

[@steverosenblatt7267]

Hey dude- I don't know if you know or care- but I'm, a player as well but I'm also a professor, I have a couple of doctorates and have published a few books on a few subjects that you might not care about, but I am, telling you, you have done the world of fellow players and buyers a SERIOUS favor. Good for you man. People typically don't want to publicize mistakes they've made, but you've just opened a very beneficial conversation and I have to tell you, I really appreciate it.

[@metalraff]

Honestly, being a real Les Paul & with this insane story, the guitar should be a collectors item itself.

[@jackjohnson1666]

Great video man, it took me on a journey and I was enraged for you. I've been in situations like that and it is so frustrating and depressing. I'm glad you are doing great now and showing they didn't get the best of you

[@Emailmesoicanignoreu]

I felt pity for him. Not the sharpest pick in the case.

[@SOAMLE]

I had 2nd hand rage for you when you got to the part where PayPal denied the claim. Just... so incredibly messed up on their part.

[@Frip36]

Yep. That was just flat out criminal on their part.

[@greg-warsaw4708]

I thought I may try to watch it although it's rather long. Now I see it's like a drama building up and I can't stop watching, so catchy this is. A job worth of a clever filmmaker. By the end my advice is: money is only money, if you sell the guitar, in a couple of years there'll be nothing left. Instead, keep it as it has become such an adventure, such a lesson and experience.

[@andyparton3755]

Hi Austin. It's Andy Parton, the guy who has contacted you about consigning my EDS-1275. You advised me to put it on Reverb myself I think for around $3500. Anyway, haven't done it yet but still think I might send it to you for consignment. This video is such a great one. It just shows how some fakes are so good. Interesting as to the "who" did it. To spend that much time to try to gin up a fake is quite an undertaking. I like your alleged theory, but so many others could have been involved. Kinda makes me wonder about the seller. How did he get propositioned with it, or was he part of the deception? Just thinking. Certainly one of the most intriguing videos you have done. Provoked this comment from me. Best wishes, and keep up the good work!

[@RC51Rod]

I greatly appreciate your help identifying a Gibson I bought last December. I thought I got scammed, but it just ended up being a studio light finished as a studio. I like it even more because it's a factory freak! And the studio lites had awesome necks!

[@michaelzschoche2746]

I would be devastated and completely quit buying/selling/trading most likely. You are very brave to continue trogly.

[@Archtops]

Compelling! Well done. Looking forward to finding out what it truly is.

[@Aeon135]

Austin, you’re an absolute legend for sharing all this. People who’re victims of scams and fraud often feel a lot of shame and stigma and we all really respect the courage it must’ve taken to make this video. Much love from Ireland!

[@mercster]

On the modern Internet of victimhood, shame no longer exists.

[@_-_Michael_-_]

Actually that 5000$ refund from one card company was so big highlight of this trainwreck, made me appreciate them a lot.

[@artemisnite]

If you're spending more than a couple thousand on ANY guitar, you just got scammed. 🤷

[@dtimm612]

Hearted comment from Mr. Harrison? Must have been deleted because I'm not seeing one. Anyone know what it said exactly? Just curious

[@voyager7]

Sad that you've had to go through all this, but as episodes go this was a fascinating watch. I hope that someone at PayPal steps up and does the right thing...you are 100% correct, even if the extension was not normal, they or a representative of that company did extend it to you and you complied. To rescind that because they saw the price tag is unethical and unjust. I challenge PP to do the right thing on this!

[@MainPrism]

Double challenge!!! Step up Pay Pal this is super messed up... I've only used it a few times but I sure won't be using them for big purchases after watching this!!!

[@Dram1984]

PayPal 100% doesn’t care about anyone.

[@johnalbasini5875]

Sadly, PP does not often do the right thing. I bought a much cheaper item that was nowhere near what was described. PP ascertained that since I received an item, that it wasn’t fraud. They denied my claim. Lesson learned.

[@laughingdaffodils5450]

You clearly don't know paypal.

[@joeturner7959]

I challenge PP to the right thing on anything. I have been scammed by PP, a few times, but only for low dollar stuff, but its irritating just the same. PP 100% does not care about anyone. They are not even a last resort.

[@boogerz]

Unfortunate that this happed to you but thank you for sharing the story and information, as well as offering appraisals to help other people. Eventhough it's a fake/replica, it does have a story. I'll wait for part 2 to hear how it plays and sounds and the deep dive into taking it apart. Thanks again Trogly!

[@younglin_slayer6683]

The crazy thing is that this is a 80.000$ guitar today!💀

[@codsack56]

Ex vintage guitar dealer here… EX ! I dealt in Fender and Musicman vintage bass guitars and did all the big shows and then came eBay in 1996 and the internet took it to new heights! Changed pots and pickups, maxed out truss rods, refinished body’s were everywhere. No thanks!!!

[@shawnwhit]

This is a very well told story! I’m sorry you’re still going through it and I hope you get satisfaction! Thanks for the episode!!!

[@MsZappas]

Quite the epic story! I am a long time viewer of this channel and I have to say I was glued to my monitor for this one. I hope paypal makes it right, since you clearly are an honest customer and they look like crap right now. As far as selling off the guitar, I would be a little leary about that, mainly because it's obviously cursed. The curse could be helping your career now as you seem to be doing quite well and parting with the guitar could be like a reverse curse break. Not to mention someone else may try to pass if off as an original and someone else will be cursed out of alot of money.

[@hkguitar1984]

I'm also a long time viewer/subscriber and was also glued to the monitor during this episode. I 100% agree with you, keep the guitar and use it as the ultimate learning tool.

[@goten2831]

amazing video dude, fantastic story telling and you seem like a very wise, well spoken, smart young man

[@Microtonal_Cats]

What a story. I don't even play guitar anymore (do everything with VSTs and a keyboard, even guitars), but this is well told, and a crappy thing to have happen to anyone.

[@jimbobsquarepants1765]

You were ‘short of funds at the time’ but flipped over 15 grand on a high value guitar, on eBay, from a total stranger in Mexico? This is without the numerous red flags after the auction had finished. Dude, I feel for you but man, you walked right into this like a complete mug.

[@danyeo]

Dave Ramsey is just going mental with face palms.

[@postwardream8579]

That was my first thought

[@chhau123]

Maybe 15 grand is not that much to him

[@DemonKingOFFICIAL]

Total duck move

[@robertp457]

"you walked right into this like a complete mug." Nope Its not like there were pictures and articles all over the place about this guitar. That kind of information just didn't exist at the time. Also your post was a total duck move.

[@joermnyc]

Yes, the Les Paul Museum can have the Fake Snakepit Room with an eternal flame burning the PayPal logo 😂

[@toltecnightmare]

I don't know what happy pills they put in the water where you live, but for 15k, I'm heading to mexico in a windowless van with a plastic shower curtain and a dull hatchet

[@CountGraduon]

"We didnt have a lot of money." Proceeds to buy a fifteen thousand dollar guitar depicted with grainy images, being shipped from Mexico, and has little to no knowledge of what the guitar should actually look like. Right...

[@lifewithglee]

What a great story. It had me gripped all the way through. Sorry you got scammed. Most videos I watch at 1.5 or 2x speed but this one I had on normal. Top quality.

[@foxtrot889]

Ayyyyyy... Citibank had your back. They're my main cc that I use, and I've had nothing but good experiences. Not a perfect or even remotely happy ending, but I'm glad things worked out for you financially. If I were in that situation, I'd totally be so anxious I'd be throwing up every night. Hope you didn't stress that much, and congrats/kudos to building a good community and making something of the hobby/career.

[@hkguitar1984]

I hear you. When our Daughter got married and left home the day after she moved we received the last mobile phone bill (as she was young and on our account), the Bill was for $6K. I went to the bathroom and threw up. This was back in the early 2000's, phone plans have changed greatly since then. The following month was for $4K. All her time on the phone was due to her making long distance calls to her future husband. Thankfully AT&T was able to greatly reduce the bill and our Daughter is still married to the same man. Point of my story, yeah, that kind of financial loss is most certainly "Throw-Up" worthy.

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@hkguitar1984 The good old days when cell phone companies charged you by the minute. I always kept my calls to a minimum back in those days. I did get hit with some larger than normal bills before I had unlimited texting though.

[@Zulumann25]

As soon as i saw that case it came in i would have been absolutely TERRIFIED 😮

[@clutch2827]

Not a guitar, but I hired someone to refinish a nice table for me. He disappeared without a trace along with my table.

[@Titanium_Cranium]

I got scammed for 15k. So I tried to scam someone else for 30k. Way to spread that negativity man.

[@thefixation500]

I was an Ebay guitar reseller myself back in the day. A scammer selling me a 1962 gibson...odly enough also from Dallas Tx put me out of business. I am glad you got past it :)

[@randallsamuels1432]

Austin, You do tell this story calmly and you choose your words very carefully. I know exactly why you waited so long to share this. It took awhile before you could relate this story without your emotions showing up fully enraged. Surely there were points in time when road trip and revenge were the first thing you thought of when to awake and were to hide the body the last thing before you went to sleep at night. You could not tell anyone you had been scammed for that would reflect on your knowledge and expertise. Then came meeting the deadlines and no one wanting to help you when it was just the right thing to do. I must admit that particular counterfeit snake is more famous than any of the authentic ones except for those in Slash's possession. Enjoyed the video because i have been in your shoes when dealing with Paypal and Ebay. They always decide in there own favor and they make millions on a daily bases.

[@annedarlington5837]

Nice looking sg!❤ I like it! But what are the chances of getting it in Australia??

[@user-zn6ic8ul1m]

I was fascinated by this video. Flashing red lights must of been going off when the guitar was listed for just half of the going rate. IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE , MOST TIMES IT IS. Sorry for your loss. It’s A very expensive lesson..