Well unless there is proof, then you have to take his word that he didn't receive the reel as he expressed. If that's the case, then him givin you any money at all is a huge act of kindness. Fact is you made an educated guess to assume the risk of doing business without a security net ( postal insurance) and their is no fault on the buyer until proof is established that he purposely defrauded you out of your material goods. It stinks and seems shady but it's how business works outside if a retail setting. We have all been burned at some point in our lives but hopefully this doesn't discourage you from doing business on this forum ,but alters the way you do it ,and encourage you to be a more active member.