No wonder nothing sells: wire transfer only

I completely understand why sellers want to be paid in full prior to shipping anything.  I do.  Just google "top ten scams on Pay Pay where sellers lose money and product" and see how easy it is for a seller to lose both the product and the money.  I have never had an issue as a buyer or seller when asking for payment up front. 

It depends on development of a trusted relationship not just a transaction. I’ve wired 5 figures but to known people / dealers w pristine reputation and feedback over a decent period of time.

It seems the OP is not as concerned with the up-front payment as with the method of payment being one with no recourse in the event something ends up janky. Credit cards and regular PayPal offer some level of protection for the buyer while money orders, cashier's checks, wire transfers, and PayPal F&F do not offer protections.  I suspect more sellers are asking for payment by F&F, wire transfers, and money orders because they don't want the amount of sale recorded and reported to the IRS.  Assuming sellers bought the stuff in the first place, the IRS reporting is easy and virtually nobody here should have a taxable gain of any significant amount.  However, some people just don't want to be bothered. 

If you want protection for expensive purchases as a buyer, simply offer payment by PayPal, offer to pay the associated fee, and walk away if the seller doesn't agree.  It may cost you a bit more, and you may lose a few deals, but you should have greater piece of mind that you won't get swindled.

OP and Bigtwin,

OP is concerned about wiring funds to a seller.  I not sure what protections you have if you wire money vs paying with a credit card, on via ones of the forums like this one or eBay.  I have never had a counterparty request a funds wire transfer, but if I did, I would steer them to sites where I had recourse if performance is not rendered.  

It's almost like giving cash to a stranger with a promise of something in return. I wouldn't do it.