Lee Big Stopper 10-stop 4x4 ND filter scalpers

I'm sure this has been mentioned before but this really bothers me. I realize that we're not all "friends" here but we do have a common passion for photography. So, it really bothers me when I see some folks come here and try to take advantage of others.

To be specific the Lee Big Stopper 10-stop 4x4 ND filter scalpers. These filters, when you can find them, sell new for $155 shipped. Yet some people think it's just fine and dandy to "scalp" them for $240 each in the "Sell" Forum. That's an $85 mark-up over the brand new price because they are in short supply. Yes, I understand supply and demand and "yes" I know I don't have to buy one from them (I won't) but why would someone think that's "ok" to do that to a photography college and fellow POTN member?

One thing some of these scalpers are doing that makes it even worse is they are buying them in sets of 3 (or more). Why a set of 3 you ask..? well it's all math. You buy 3 for $465 and sell 2 of them for $240 each plus PP fees ($480 + 3%) so after shipping costs you get yours for free (it's no coincidence that they're asking ~$235 - $240... do the math). So, not only are they taking advantage of the short supply situation but they're also making it worse by buying more than they need thereby reducing the supply even further to others who want one at the fair market price but can't get one because they're "sold out" due in no small part to scalpers overbuying.

To me doing that to a group of people that you "hang" out with because of a common interest you share is just plain wrong. I know the vast majority of the members here are trying to help each other out with getting good deals (like the Market Watch, etc.). And, I've also seen the rare case were someone sells one for the fair market price too without taking advantage of others. But some people on the other hand... well, I'll let you decide.

Ok, I'm done feel free to tell to MYOB (or worse)...

p.s. As soon as my 3 Lee Big Stoppers get here look for me in the "Sell" Forum scalping... (Edit: I'm kidding I didn't buy three... lame attempt at humor)

If it makes you feel any better I know a few members that have been trying to get rid of their big-stoppers and foundation kits for a while and have had no luck at their prices. They try on other forums like FM with no luck as well. I just chuckle when I see them post

There is no doubt the big stopper is a great product. I have one and love it. I wouldn't shell out the extra cash though.

I have been wanting one because i am not in love with my hitech but not paying the extra $80+ for it!

I'll ask you this. Hypothetical situation. If you bought your house 20 years ago for say $150,000 and today it's market value is $450,000, would you sell that house to a friend for your original purchase price of $150,000?

Hogloff wrote in post #15124397
I'll ask you this. Hypothetical situation. If you bought your house 20 years ago for say $150,000 and today it's market value is $450,000, would you sell that house to a friend for your original purchase price of $150,000?

Different scenario. BS is still available (albeit with a waiting time) at the original purchase price, it does not have an increased value except to those who simply cannot wait.

Sirrith wrote in post #15124454
Different scenario. BS is still available (albeit with a waiting time) at the original purchase price, it does not have an increased value except to those who simply cannot wait.

Then what is the problem. If you can wait...then wait...if you cannot wait, then pay the extra bucks.

I see used lenses for sale at maybe 5% discount from what you can buy it for new. To me...that is a ripoff, but I don't complain about it. I just don't buy that used lens.

I like to believe most buyers here are pretty aware regarding pricing, and would avoid these.

Not sure what the real problem is. The market will set the value and if the manufacturer can't keep up with demand, this sort of thing naturally happens. People will inadvertently set the true value of the item as supply and demand dictates. If you don't think it's worth it, that's fine, but someone else might not agree or simply might "just need it now."

Nothing wrong with a charge for convenience since that person takes the risk of the convenience not being wanted. In a weird way like hiring a gardener, maid, or even a photographer...you could do it yourself, but you pay for the immediate satisfaction without doing the work (in the case of the BS, it's finding the right retailer and waiting).

I just think it's ridiculous that Lee is still having supply issues. This has been going on for years.

I'm sure they don't see it as an issue at all. From their perspective, better to run short and sell out than have a surplus. Availability (or lack of) probably makes their products more desirable. Silly, yes. But possible? Absolutely.

I'm not saying it is or isn't intentional, but it probably works in their favor.

v35skyline wrote in post #15125303
I'm sure they don't see it as an issue at all. From their perspective, better to run short and sell out than have a surplus. Availability (or lack of) probably makes their products more desirable. Silly, yes. But possible? Absolutely.

I'm not saying it is or isn't intentional, but it probably works in their favor.

Ever been to a club in LA or Vegas BEFORE 10pm? The line is around the corner, but there aren't many people inside. Agree that it may not be intentional, but a queue always helps draw interest.

There was an upstanding member of the forum who purchased up 5 of the Big Stoppers when it became available about 6 weeks ago at Adorama. He sold them to POTN members at cost. I was lucky enough to see his posting and grabbed one for $180 shipped and insured.

I'm still waiting in the queue at 2filter.com for a Foundation Kit.

jnaks wrote in post #15125358
Ever been to a club in LA or Vegas BEFORE 10pm? The line is around the corner, but there aren't many people inside. Agree that it may not be intentional, but a queue always helps draw interest.

I'm from LA and yes I've been to Vegas. That was my point.

OP, I've sold around 7 or 8 Big Stoppers at-cost for $180 shipped/insured here (one of them to Nathan). I encourage you to sell your 3 when you get them at cost as well to the forum to help discourage the practice. I think the few that I've sold have discouraged a lot of sales at $230+ prices but the more people do it, the better.

Supply and demand. I don't really see the issue. If people are willing to pay the price, let them. Why exactly did you buy 3 of them if you are just selling the other 2?