Snapshotsue Loc: Sarasota, Florida

I have a Nikon D3100 with 18-55mm lens. I have an event where I will be shooting groups against a back drop and also candid shots. I was thinking of purchasing a telephoto lens Nikon 55-200 f/4-5.6 G ED VR. New are in the $346.00 range while used are as low as $99.00. Are used lens okay? Other than this event I shoot as a hobby landscapes, flora and birds etc. I’ve felt I’ve needed a telephoto lens.
Thanks for any input!

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

Sue, here's a suggestion. If you are only going to be using this lens for this event, why not just rent one? If it turns out you fall in love with it, then you can consider purchasing one.

As far as purchasing a used lens, I'd only consider purchasing used equipment from Nikon, B and H, or Adorama. They are reputable.
--Bob

jim quist Loc: Missouri

I would be cautious about buying any inexpensive lens that is now being sold in the used section.

JeffL Loc: New Jersey

It depends on who is offering the lens. If it is one of the big photo retailers (B&H, Adorama, etc.), it’s safe to buy it. Especially if it is refurbished. If it’s an individual offering on eBay, Facebook marketplace, etc., I would meet them, thoroughly test the lens in my camera, and then make a decision. Used can be great, but caution is advised.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Sue - Renting camera gear for limited use is very cost effective. Companies, such as Lensrentals.com have a wide selection of lenses in first class condition and provide other accessories you may need. Have done this in the past with very satisfactory results. Rent the lens in advance so you have a day or two use use it on your camera before the event.

Keen

Used lenses are fine, if you buy good stuff from reputable dealers. Most of my lenses are used. Adorama, B&H Photo-Video, and MPB, have been good for me. Check the ratings the sites offer. Adorama has a rating system, so you can get anything from almost new to only good for parts items. MPB describes whether there is dust inside the lens to what degree of brassing, etc, the lens has. Some people take good care of their gear, and then sell it to get money to buy new items. Other people treat their gear like garbage, and damage it before selling it. Pay attention to descriptions, but realize that a used item is sold 'As Is', and will generally have no warranty. Some sellers of used gear will offer their own, in store, warranty; but most won't. I got a used 28-80mm Nikon f/3.3-5.6G lens for $47.00. It is in almost new condition. It came in the original box. I suspect that it has just sat in a warehouse, without ever having been purchased, or put on a camera.....or that it was put on a camera as in in store demonstrator, and otherwise put in the store's store room. It is extremely sharp. The one time I got ripped off, by a used lens purchase, I bought it from Ebay. It was damaged, and totally unlike the description of it on Ebay. I no longer buy from Ebay. I have bought several used items from Adorama, B&H, and MPB, and never had any problems, or regrets. Consider older Nikon lenses designed for their film cameras. My 28-80mm lens was one such. It was a later G type sold as a kit lens with the cheaper film cameras such as the N55, shortly before everything camera wise went digital. I also have some still older lenses. Nikon Ai, Ai-S, and D, lenses should work on your camera, and will usually be available used, and be affordable in most cases. Check Ken Rockwell. He has a lens-camera compatibility chart on his site.

Snapshotsue Loc: Sarasota, Florida

Thanks for all your info!

Photographer Jim Loc: Rio Vista, CA

Agreed. Renting a lens can be a great way to test out a lens to see if it suits your needs, especially if you are not sure if it is a lens that you will use a lot.

In addition to the sources mentioned, if you decide to buy and want to go used, KEH.com is also a very reputable source. I’ve purchased two used lens from them over the years and have always found the quality of their equipment to exceed my expectations.

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

Sue, I would by a used lens from B&H or Adorama without any worries. Both rate their used stuff very conservatively. Very reliable and you can always return if there is something you don't like about it for any reason. A word of caution, 200mm will not be adequate for birds unless you are just interested in bird bath and feeder photos.

Snapshotsue Loc: Sarasota, Florida

Thanks haven’t heard of that one.

sxrich

I've bought a number of used lenses, some pro level ie 24-70 and 70-200. Make sure you can return them if there is an issue. I sold a camera and some used lenses in perfect condition pretty much. If I were you, I'd also consider the Nikon 55-300dx. I had both and found it to be a little better, more reach, very close in used price. I also bought a refurb 18-105dx from Adorama in great shape.

sv3noKin51E

SnapshotSue, we own the same lens, bought it a couple years ago from Adorama as a Nikon refurbished for about $100; it's held up well with every body used on. As long as you have enough light, and know your camera setup, you should be just fine with it. It looked like and acted new, came with the Nikon certificate of authority/refurbishment. We'd buy it again.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

I have purchased only 2 new lenses in my 52 yrs as a photographer. The 18-200 that came as a kit lens for my D200, and most recently a 70-200 FL. All my other lenses, including for my 35mm, 6x6 6x9 and 4x5 have been used. I've never had a bad experience. I have purchased from stores, private sellers, craigslist, Fred Miranda's classified listings (highly recommended), Naturescapes classified listings, eBay, etc. It's easier these days since you have PayPal and can ask all the questions you need to have answers to, and get all the pictures you need to make an informed decision - and if the seller makes any misrepresentation, you have full recourse - PayPal will refund your money +shipping to you and back to the seller.

Don't expect a consumer grade zoom to be able to do birds - you'll need something longer than 200mm, unless you are at a zoo and the birds are captive.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I buy lots of stuff used. Just be careful. Read at the descriptions, and look at the pictures. As here, if in doubt.

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

Your 18-55 should be fine. Unless you really want to buy an additional lens, your OK with the one you have.