buying used equipment

[kornphlake]

I think I've decided I want to step up to a digital SLR, I'm not really a novice to buying used goods on ebay or elsewhere, but when it comes to highly electronic equipment I'm not real sure how to judge the seller's compentance in assesing the condition of an item.

I'm looking at the Cannon D30, it's only sold used as far as I can tell, which frankly is why it's in my price range. I'd love to buy from some place like B&H that offers used equipment, but I haven't been able to find anybody who's got a D30 on hand. I'm open to suggestions if anybody knows of a reputable shop that may have one on hand, I haven't bought a lot of equipment except at places like Ritz camera lately.

I may check some of the local pawn shops to see if I can turn up something, aside from needing to have the batteries, charger and cables, what should I look for on the camera body? Obviously cracks, dents, scuffs or other battle wounds would be bad, but what about the electronic function of the camera? My experiance with electronics is that they don't usually work or not work, there's usually a partial working mode that I might not notice until long after making the purchase.

Are any DSLRs known for having problems at this point? Would it be reasonable to expect a D30 to last me 10+ years assuming I don't get gear hungry?

[another view]

Would it be reasonable to expect a D30 to last me 10+ years assuming I don't get gear hungry?

Possible, but hard to say. I don't think that DSLR's in general are really built with that in mind because models keep getting upgraded on a much shorter cycle. What's out 10 years from now is anybody's guess, other than the fact that you'll see a lot of improvements in a lot of areas, and lower prices.

I'd check out whatever camera really well before buying it - including taking a few shots and looking at them on your computer monitor to make sure there's no problems with it. Better yet, buy from a place like B&H or KEH.com who have a return policy. If neither has one now, eventually they probably will - just a matter of waiting for it.

Basically, you're buying a used computer - but any repairs may cost more than the value of the camera.

[Liz]

Here is a link to a used "Excellent Plus" D30 at Keh dot com which is a very reputable on-line store - with a return policy. Check it out - I don't know if they are open on Saturday or what time they close Friday. I have dealt with them - and their customer service is excellent. I returned a used lens once, and they gave me no problem.

http://www.keh.com/shop/SHOWPRODUCT....urpic=0&dpsp=0

Liz

[kornphlake]

Thanks for the link Liz, I'd really prefer to buy from a shop that knows cameras inside out and will offer a return period. Are there any other shops besides B&H and KEH that sells used equipment over the internet?

[another view]

Midwest Photo Exchange does, but they don't have any D30's - at least on their website. I have no experience with this company, only heard of them before. Adorama and Calumet both do as well, and I haven't had any problems when dealing with these places.

KEH seems to have a great reputation for being conservative on their ratings and standing behind what they sell. I haven't dealt with them either but wouldn't personally hesitate. Ebay is a gamble, and if you don't have experience here I wouldn't start by buying a DSLR from someone you don't know. Too much that can go wrong, and with experience with ebay you can sort-of tell if someone knows what they're talking about. I've been lucky, I guess.

[masdog]

Calumet Photographic, but they don't have any used used Digitals in their catalog.

[Liz]

I've dealt with KEH and they are great. They are as good as B&H IMO as far as "knowing cameras" and have enjoyed a good reputation for years. They have a return of 14 days for used - and offer a warranty too - I believe it's 90 days which is what most reputable stores offer on used and refurbished.

Liz

Thanks for the link Liz, I'd really prefer to buy from a shop that knows cameras inside out and will offer a return period. Are there any other shops besides B&H and KEH that sells used equipment over the internet?