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Testing a used lens
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Jan 28, 2020 09:44:21   #
DHoskins Loc: Missoula, MT USA
 
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.

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Jan 28, 2020 09:48:24   #
dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.


I understand wanting a used lens to perform properly but one of the best tests I can think of is to put it on a camera and start taking pictures, pictures of landscapes, people, up close and far away and in different lighting conditions. I would also put the camera on a tripod and take pictures of let's say newsprint or at least something that would give evidence of sharp visual acuity. In doing this you will find out if the lens works to begin with, the focus is smooth, nothing broken and also the color rendition and sharpness of the lens.

Dennis

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Jan 28, 2020 09:49:54   #
Thomas902 Loc: Washington DC
 
"...an objective protocol for testing a used lens?"
Purchasing from a vendor who has a good track record in testing proviously owned optics would be a wise move... example: Robert's Camera
https://robertscamera.com/

Other than that, there are countless videos on YouTube about this... albeit some are rather questionable...

Here is an excellent way to test for a "Decentered" lens
https://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2012/05/testing-for-a-decentered-lens-an-old-technique-gets-a-makeover/

Hope this helps DHoskins
btw, have you considered the merit of purchasing new from an authorized dealer?
Nikon typically offers a 5 year warranty on it's Nikkors
Just a thought

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Jan 28, 2020 09:56:00   #
RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.

Same as with a new lens, take pictures with it and evaluate the results. Shoot at various distances and all apertures.
Make sure the seller has a return policy. I’ve had bad luck with Adorama and B&H - never a problem with KEH.

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Jan 28, 2020 10:11:30   #
cameraf4 Loc: Delaware
 
I agree that Robert's Camera and KEH are safe places to get a good lens. When I first started in photography I had little cash, so I bought from EBAY. Have had mostly good experiences.
Take the shade off a lit lamp and look through the lens directly at the light. This is the best way to see if there is something growing on your glass.
Then test your "used lens" just as you would a new one.

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Jan 28, 2020 10:21:47   #
CO
 
I got the ZEISS Siemens Star Test Chart to check lenses for de-centering. So far, all of my lenses have checked out OK. There's an excellent video by Nate's Tech online. He recommends to check lenses immediately. He has a link where you can download the chart. I purchased the chart from B&H. Return the lens if there is de-centering.

Also, get a target to check for back or front focusing tendencies. I got the DataColor SpyderLensCal to check for that. If there are large back or front focusing tendencies, return the lens.

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Jan 28, 2020 10:22:50   #
CO
 
Entered same twice.

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Jan 28, 2020 10:23:05   #
frankraney Loc: Clovis, Ca.
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.


Advice.... But from a reputable company, KEH B&H, Adorama..... Companies with a great reputation and return policy.

Testing, shoot, shoot, shoot, immediately, so you can return it if needed be, which you should not except if it is damaged in shipment if you buy from above.

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Jan 28, 2020 11:03:06   #
PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.


Welcome aboard. You got some great advice as where to buy and check lens with a test chart.

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Jan 28, 2020 11:12:38   #
DHoskins Loc: Missoula, MT USA
 
Yes, I definitely got some useful info that I would never have thought of. Thank you!

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Jan 28, 2020 16:49:22   #
uhaas2009
 
To buy a used lens takes some expires. Everything you can’t see you have to hear and feel it, like the focusing Motor. Does the aperture blades move probably.....how certain lens-camera body work together.....

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Jan 28, 2020 20:53:40   #
TriX Loc: Raleigh, NC
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.


Buy a copy of Reikan’s FoCal SW and test and calibrate all your lenses. You will know immediately if the lens is up to par, and as a benefit, you will know the aperture vs acuity and any microfocus adjustment needed.

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Jan 28, 2020 23:29:43   #
ralf Loc: NJ
 
I sometimes buy used lenses from B&H. I stick with high ratings such as 9+, 10, or Refurbs. B&H is very good about assessing used equipment and their prices are fair. I have several used lenses and never had a problem.
- Test protocol: shoot at every f-stop and every focal length, look for loose connections or fittings, test AF and manual focus, test stabilization if that's important to you. Pixel peep all pictures. Look at the corners and the center. Sharpness, color, contrast, and flare. If you have any doubts, you might also check for front/back focusing -- but doing this correctly is tricky and not necessarily easy-peasy.
- Visually inspect the lens
- Be realistic: if the lens is top-notch when new, it should perform top-notch used. If the lens is not top-notch when new, do not expect miracles.

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Jan 29, 2020 07:05:02   #
billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont
 
DHoskins wrote:
Can someone suggest an objective protocol for testing a used lens? Used lens buying advice would be a big help.


I set out a bottle of Dawn. That nice blue labeled one. I put it about 20-30 feet away. Tripod, I shoot the Dawn bottle and then enlarge the image to see how sharp the lettering is. You can then use your best lens and see how they compare. Make sure your old lens is set at the same equivalent distance as your used lens.

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Jan 29, 2020 09:27:14   #
imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida
 
Large, finely detailed maps make good test subjects ......
.

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