What to look for in used equiment?

[Lazy O]

I have been wanting a DSLR for a couple of years now and I might finally be able to get one (used, but better than nothing) And was wondering if I could get some pointers on what to look for.

I have been searching on craigslist.com and have come across some that look like they are good deals but since I am a noob I wanted to make sure they are fine.

Nikon D70
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/pho/739473533.html

Nikon D200
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/pho/741033995.html
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/pho/741889197.html

:hail: to who ever helps.

 

[macdsean]

Honestly, I don't think I would buy a used camera. You can find some really great deals on brand new ones if you look hard enough. If I were you I would spend some time trying to find the best deal on a brand new one, and then if the used is still significantly less expensive and you think it is worth the risk, go with the used one.

 

[Joves]

First do you have any Nikon lenses? If I were to get either of the D200s I would take a lens along to make sure they worked correctly. Mostly like AF and shooting a couple of shots and, then reviewing them. Id be suspect of the second camera though because of the low actuation count and, being bought used in the first place. I also would not buy a used Dslr, they arent at all like buying a used film camera. Since you are considering a D70 why not get a new D80 to start with? It is a very good camera, I still have mine and, use it still. Granted not as much as, my D300 though. Also remember that anytime you do a firmware revision the actuation count gets cleared.

 

[icassell]

Many camera shops sell used gear that has been checked out by their service tech and offer some sort of warranty. It will cost more than Craig's list, but less than new ... and you will have some recourse if there is a problem.

On the other hand, I've bought used off of ebay with no issues. Guess I've been lucky.

 

[tirediron]

I'm a big fan of buying used gear, but as others have alluded to, I wouldn't recommend buying a DSLR private-sale unless you are very familiar with it. There are too many areas where something may not work quite right... if you want to go used for a body, go with icassell's suggestion - a reputable camera store.

 

[Lazy O]

Thanks a lot for the info. Really appreciate it.

 

[MelodySoul]

I think buying used can be a great way to start out in photography. I just bought a used D200 a few weeks ago. My only advice is to buy it from a reputable source and get a warranty. I bought from a well known camera store and was able to get an extended warranty. Good thing I did because my lens (which was brand new) was defective and actually somehow destroyed the auto-focus on my camera as well. I had to have them both replaced!