Used or New??

[Beef Merciful]

OK, so I've settled on getting an 80-200mm f2.8 lens for my d70 (thanks to everyone who replied).

My next question is: Should I go through a website like pricegrabber and get the lowest price on a new one, or should I settle for a used one that is in acceptable condition on ebay?

[JSPhoto]

Most photographers take good care of their gear, that said, staff photogs tend to be rough on gear...they didn't pay for it so they don't care. Basicaly if you buy used get the history of the lens as to who owned it, used it and make sure you see good photos of the actual lens.
At one race I was in Canon's room at the track and they had a 1D body that was all dented and had no paint left on it, but the body worked fine and had only been repaired once for a broken switch. The 500mm lens attached to the body looked just as bad, but it too still worked perfectly while a new lens sat next to it and it didn't work.
As for Ebay, be carefull and check out the seller! Also make sure that if you decide you do not want the lens it can be returned and you can get your money back. Reputable dealers and sellers will do that, just get in black and white!

JS

[mjs1973]

JS has some good advice. Be sure to check out www.keh.com if you are in the market for a used lens. I don't know if they have the lens you are looking for, but I have heard nothing but good things about them.

[dhyravy]

I have bought used from Adorama with very good results. Their rating system is dependable and the items are returnable.

[specradio]

http://www.ngscorp.com/newspaper/LawEnforcement.aspx

Local company...I've bought from them before and they're great and cheap priced. Everything they list about the lens is most likely exactly what it looks like, and what it's flaws are.

[Beef Merciful]

thanks much