I haven’t done “buying on line in” the UK however I’ve done tones of it here in the US, some times it works like clockwork and some times, and well it doesn’t! I have never been burned yet and I’m trying getting a guitar this time (some thing I said Id never do as I like to ply 'em first !). However I couldn’t find the axe I wanted I Iowa so, I’m gonna give my favorite on line store a go! And if the axe is pants, I'll send it back ! I think Axel_rose has bought Les Paul on line in the UK, he will probably have some advice for you if you ask him !