Interesting story. Back in ‘87 or ‘88 a slightly-known acquaintence of mine attempted to sell me a machine gun. I was smart enough to turn it down and get scarce, even when it was basically offerred for free. I never saw the guy again and have no idea what his angle was. I figure either it was a sting or a scared idiot with an illegally converted semiauto gun thst he was in a hurry to lose. The Lord knows I’ve met enogh of the latter over the years.
They are out there..... Batfageeee’s are in that business of course yet 99% of such events are just as you described.... Just an idgit trying to recoup his nickel before he does a dime of time....
Stay Safe Jboot !