ltj123 Loc: NW Wisconsin

Well, yes be careful, BUT my new Canon purchases (2) have all been good AND with Canon warranty registration, same as the B&H, Andorama, and KEH. Used my daughter recent purchases of Canon 50mm 2.5 macro and T3i have proved to be great buys. Instead of second hand so called "horror" stories maybe you should relate to actual...

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Used is OK and easier from the large reputable sources - ebay OK but less easier.

I would rather like the Sigma 24-35 f2 on the 850 as a starter - cheap enough that you can buy NEW.

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suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

Makes very good sense! I had never thought of it in those terms before.

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

In the first place, used lenses from reputable stores carry a warranty. I have bought my lenses from other photographers and I never had a problem with them. Refurb could be your answer.
I am not familiar with the D850 but I wonder if there is anything wrong with your present camera. Perhaps it lacks features you need in your photography? Cameras and lenses nowadays are a big investment and many times they require a visit to the bank.
All of my cameras and lenses are old but they do what I need from them. I am not saying you should do the same, we are different.

TonyBot

Personally, I would consider that your friends and camera store are suggesting the 24-70 and you are discarding their opinion because of something you saw on the internet?

Quote:I was considering the 24 to 70 per friend and camera store suggestions, but after watching the video "Why I Hate the 24 - 70 lens" made me re-think it because the guy is absolutely right in my opinion.

Why don't you ask the store or your friends to let you take a few shots with the 24-70, and a few with whatever else you would like to consider. Or rent them to try them out.

Personally, I am in the 24-70 camp: not too large, fairly light weight, excellent reviews, and with the 850, you can even crop somewhat and still get some pretty good large prints. (disclaimer: I am a Canon guy, and I chose the 24-70 f4L as my "walk-around" lens and haven't regretted the decision)

I also agree with the fact that buying used from B&H, Adorama, KEH or MPB is a good way to go. I would also include companies such as LensRentals because they earn their money - and reputation - supplying nothing but top-quality and well maintained equipment. Sort of like buying a "Certified Pre Owned" car - you already know its "used" - but it has been checked out rather thoroughly.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

You have to be careful with buying a used piece of equipment. I recently bought a Canon 600EX RT speedlite used. I met with the guy and put it on top of my camera and tested it. But I didn't test it long enough. I should have gone into a shady area and tested to see if some of the values changed when I put the speedlite in M. So now it's off to repair and will probably cost me as much as a brand new one would have cost. I also purchased a 16-35 f/2.8 lens and later discovered that there's a broken barrel in it. I didn't notice that a couple of the screws didn't match (weren't exactly the same) and so when I took it to Canon for a "Clean & Check", they told me that it wasn't right and that they don't do repairs on those any more because of obsolescence. Screwed again. I'm waiting for a refurb to become available but in the meantime, the 16-35 still works, it's just that it bothers me that it has something wrong.

Those two aside, I've had some good luck purchasing used equipment. I bought a 70-200 f/2.8 Mark II from a guy in my photo club. He was switching to Sony and only used his equipment for video recording in his home for a blog. It came with the box, and receipt. Paid $1200. Good Deal and took to Canon and had them check it out and it's perfect. Bought a used 300mm f/2.8 from a guy that shot sports for Sports Illustrated and got an excellent price and deal. It has been checked by Canon and is el-sopreamo. (I know, that's not a word). Anyway, the bottom line is that it's a bit of a crap shoot when you buy things used. If you buy from a dealer such as B&H or Adorama, you'll stand a good chance of getting your money back if you thoroughly check it out in a timely fashion.

Ron Dial Loc: Cuenca, Ecuador

I purchased a little bit of used gear from B&H and it was fine. KEH is extraordinary in their grading and accuracy of their pricing. I would not hesitate a bit to buy from KEH. I think they are more upfront and honest than individuals. They certainly go over their gear with a fine comb.

wapiti Loc: round rock, texas

All of my Nikon equipment, 5 Dslr's, lenses from 20 to 500mm, have all been purchased either Refurbished or used.

Dr.Nikon Loc: Honolulu Hawaii

Excellant on the buying an 850 ..one of the best new cameras on the planet .., next .. a 24-70 2.8 .., and don’t forget the overlooked cheapest best for the buck and clarity 50mm 1.8 .. it does wonders on the 850 .buy.., .used all of course .. my 200-500 mm was new ..I have used eBay .., B&H .. etc. ,, never a problem ..., don’t forget Craig’s list .. you can actually try out the lens before you buy it ..I bought my “mint” 7100 off of Craig’s list ...years ago $400... you will love the 850/ 24-70 combo as I have .. for a starter ... and hey .. for under $150 .. a perfect 50mm 1.8 that weighs nothing and is the cheapest “prime” clearest lens in the Nikon line up ………
I am sooo happy to see another Hogg join the D850 club ....

Charlie157 Loc: San Diego, CA

Which 24-70 are you talking about

Dr.Nikon Loc: Honolulu Hawaii

Nikon 24-70 2.8 g replaced by the newer model after 2015 .., so good at 45 mega pixel

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

VRII G

rfmaude41 Loc: Lancaster, Texas (DFW area)

Add KEH and Roberts (usedphotopro.com) to that list. I also have 2-3 Japanese dealers that help me out quite a bit, eh ?

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

I like to buy new camera bodies and gently used lenses. There is a good deal of confidence among many here, regarding Adorama, B&H, Cameta Camera, and KEH. All sell well-vetted used gear. The two most recent lenses I bought from KEH were indistinguishable from new.

LWW Loc: Banana Republic of America

Buying a new fast lens is like buying a new CADILLAC ... you to experience it first before it has any blemish, and eat the biggest depreciation.

I always buy clean and used lenses and have never had an issue.