Snipe S/W?

From: Dave McGuire <mcguire_at_neurotica.com>
Date: Tue Dec 19 15:24:38 2000

On December 19, Jim Arnott wrote:
> Snipe software??? Available for a Mac? If so, where?

  Uhh, ftp.netscape.com?

  The only thing one needs for effective sniping is a web browser,
good connectivity, and perhaps an alarm clock.

  Some tips, from one of the most effective snipers I know (ME!):

   - Use the "sign in" feature...saves keystrokes when bidding.

   - Use two windows side-by-side: one on the main auction page,
     keep hitting "reload" to watch the countdown; one with a
     pre-prepared bid ready to hit "place bid". Scroll this one
     up a lot to minimize mouse movement distance to hit the button.

   - If you think another sniper is watching, it doesn't hurt to have
     another pre-prepared bid window ready to hit "place bid" but with
     a higher amount. Keep it iconified and out of the way, but
     keep it accessible.

   - Bid odd amounts...not $150.00, but $156.56. Shift to the high side
     of ones or cents. Often people will bid even amounts like
     $150.00 or slightly higher like $150.01.

   - Keep a running idea of network lag between you & eBay as you hit
     "reload" on your main auction page watching the countdown. Use
     this information when placing your bid.

   - The faster your connectivity (actually its more the latency that
     counts, but faster connectivity usually means lower-latency
     connectivity) the better off you are. I usually shoot for the
     last 3-4 seconds of the auction.

   - Know the "deep pockets" bidders. People like "at90210",
     "dimethyl", and "shirotori"...these folks have more money than
     all of us put together, and have no qualms with spending it
     to keep you from getting what you want if you piss them off.
     Don't snipe the big spenders, or you'll never win an auction
     again. It's as simple as that.

   - Know who your friends are. If you find yourself constantly
     coming up against the same person on stuff, send him or her
     some email. Get to know the other person. Try to form some
     sort of working relationship that facilitates communication
     on a per-auction basis. Decide amongst yourselves who wants
     or needs the item more. Concede once in a while. It's better
     to have friends than enemies...and sometimes those friends
     spot things that you may have missed.

  Is sniping morally wrong? I dunno, ask a priest. Is it rude?
Definitely. But there are SO many people who do it, screw it. If you
snipe someone and can't live with yourself afterwards, then don't
snipe anymore. But if you're sick of BEING sniped, or of simply not
winning the auctions that you want to win, then go for it. It's a
cold, cruel world out there.


              -Dave McGuire
Received on Tue Dec 19 2000 - 15:24:38 GMT

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