EBay - risk with bank transfer?

It may be OK, but I wouldn't do it. I think by "sort code" you are referring to the bank's "Routing/Transit number", the number
printed to the left at the bottom of the checks. That is the same for all accounts for a specific bank so providing that would not be an issue, but I would not provide my bank account number.

If you have a credit card, open a PayPal account or something similar. Your buyer can make the payment there and you will be safe. In the meantime, for this current buyer, ask for a cashier's check.

Bank-to-bank wire transfers are absolutely safe to do. You need to call your bank and tell them you want to receive a bank wire transfer. They'll tell the exact numbers, but basically you'll provide the Buyer with the bank's routing code (ABA number), an account code (probably a few numbers added to the front and combined with your account code; some banks will give you a temporary account for convenience) and your name. You'll also want to ask if there's a fee to receive this transfer -- you may want your Buyer to cover all or part of that, too. I've sold many high-value items internationally, all paid this way. Easy!

Sounds a little sketchy. Why not just use paypal?

er... if youre using paypal then theres no need, all he needs is you paypal e mail address.