I wouldn't make a lot of threats at this stage, in case he decides to sell it to you at the advertised pice, but gets even with you by pretending to mail it, but it never arrives. After all, insurance isn't offered, and he doesn't say he will use any tracking method.

Moreover, did you know he only accepts money orders or cashier checks and they have to be mailed by priority mail (which costs $4.60)? If you pay by cashier check or money order, you don't have the protection that a credit card would offer.

At this point, I see several caution flags even before you called him a fraud. If I were in your position, I would hesitate to go through with the deal - but I would want the negative feedback to go on his record, not mine.

I wouldn't refer to sand and ratholes if you want eBay to take the dispute seriously.

I definitely wouldn't pay the higher amount unless it was worth it and I could get tracking of the shipment.

Good luck.