buying use flashes--opinion

[schumionbike]

Anyone here would/wouldn't recommend buying a used flash. I want to buy a use SB-600 from BH photo for 160 bucks. It's say it's in good condition but I guess the question is if the flash is a delicate equipment and that reliablity of unit depends on the user or it is one of those things that you just plug it in and go and it doesn't who own it? Thanks.

 

[KmH]

B&H is probably the most reliable online photography equipment seller there is.

However used is used. So there is no warranty and it is not reasonable to expect as much useful life from a used unit.

That's why they cost less.

 

[usayit]

BH is good but for used, I much prefer KEH.com

 

[schumionbike]

thanks for comment guys. KEH didn't have a used sb-600 as of now. I was disappointed. I was just wondering if flash units are delicate and can be damaged due to user error and thing like that. Of course, it's better buying new but for 60 dollar cheaper (about 25% off), I was wondering if it was the chance. that and how long are these thing suppose to last? I mean, the on-camera flash on the D40 that I use at work seems to last forever but is there any expectation?

 

[KmH]

With proper care, they will last for many years. Certainly they can be damaged by user error. A M1A1 tank can be damaged by user error.

 

[JustAnEngineer]

An M1A1 tank can be damaged by user error.

M1A1 ABRAHAMS TANK STUCK IN A DITCH - IRAQ

Epic Failures: How Not To Drive A Tank - Geekologie

 

[usayit]

I mean, the on-camera flash on the D40 that I use at work seems to last forever but is there any expectation?

I can't speak to the longevity of flashes in general but I can speak to my experience:

I have a Canon 550EX, 2 420EX, 2 Sunpak 328, 2 Vivitar something, 2 Canolite D (Canonette dedicated) and a big and powerful Sunpak hammer style flash. All purchased used from various places.. With the exception of the 550EX and 420Ex's, the others have to be at least 15-20 years old. Of all of them, 1 of the Canonlite Ds no longer works. My opinion is that most flashes last a long time.