FIELD NOTES

Buy with a better eye.

Useful checks for the details a listing title leaves out.

A practical inspection routine before you commit to a listing.

How to read a listing without letting the title do all the work.

A label is a starting point. A jacket you already own is the better reference.

Look at the jacket, liner and condition as separate decisions.

A bag can look great in one photo and hide damage where the load hangs.

Buy the label, measurements and condition, not just the color.

A clean upper does not tell you everything about the sole or fit.

Grade labels are useful only when the seller explains them.

Separate the object you can see from the story you are being sold.

Decide whether an object belongs in your kit or on your shelf.