Suggestions? Where to purchase used gear.
I like B&H and Nikon used or refurbished. Have purchased from both with good results.
KEH, Adorama, B&H, Cameta, eBay. I've never had a problem with used gear, although for something major, I would look for refurbished or new.
lschiz wrote:
After 5-6 years of shooting w my Nikon D5200 kit cam and lenses, I am looking for a D750 and 1 or two lenses. I’d consider myself an experienced amateur in landscape and portrait. I’ve bought little in the line of camera gear (actually my 5200 has been my only camera purchase from Sams Club in 6 years) and so wondered what your suggestions might be; where to shop for used gear other than the retails like “Adorama”.
Personally I have had great successes here on this forum as well as Ebay. Ebay is not hard if you carefully read the descriptions and review the seller ratings and comments. Also Ebay has a strict return policy where they will force a return. Also it is rare by Adorama and a few other camera store sell on Ebay, I purchased a very expensive lens from Adorama there and it was listed for at least $400 less than in their online store.
fredmiranda.com is another forum where photographers' can buy & sell.
billnikon
Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont
lschiz wrote:
After 5-6 years of shooting w my Nikon D5200 kit cam and lenses, I am looking for a D750 and 1 or two lenses. I’d consider myself an experienced amateur in landscape and portrait. I’ve bought little in the line of camera gear (actually my 5200 has been my only camera purchase from Sams Club in 6 years) and so wondered what your suggestions might be; where to shop for used gear other than the retails like “Adorama”.
I have bought and sold on Ebay for over 10 years. I have a rating of over 900 positives. As a buyer you have 30 days from Ebay to return an item you are not happy with. I only buy MINT IN THE BOX and from a seller that has a minimum of 100% rating.
I communicate with buyers and sellers a lot and often if there is an issue. I have bought and sold over 1100 items and have never had a major issue. Communication is the name of the game.
Again, if there is an issue open a case and work with the seller, I have found 99.9% of the folks honest and trust worthy. And I should know because I buy and sell all the time.
I’ve bought used from mpb twice in the past year and have been very satisfied with the products and service. The company has also had lower prices than the others mentioned.
Adorama has a decent selection and they stand behind the product with a strong warranty. Their customer service is also one of the best.
I have had great success with Ebay, buying and selling several bodies and lenses. I have had to return some items, and have had some returned, but generally the items sold are in the condition shown in the listing.
For expensive, complex items, I would buy new, or at least make sure it was US. My D500 came from B&H. But my go-to lens, a Nikon 300mm PF, came from Ebay.
With any auction, you need to be strict about your maximum price and be ready to walk away.
Good luck.
MrBob
Loc: lookout Mtn. NE Alabama
Through Ebay over time you can build up relationships with sellers and buyers... Relationships are whats its all about when dealing with Asian based camera shops; it takes time to build trust and respect. Choose wisely and act honorably.
KEH and local shops have been great to me. Often repair shops will have cameras & lenses left without payment for a long period. They sell closer to the repair bill than the actual price. Bought 2 this way that lasted DECADES!
Refurb from the manufacturer's site. Often display returns, open box etc.
I have worked with Roberts, B&H, and Nikon refurbished; all with success.
I have used Roberts Used Photo Pro with excellent results, and KEH.
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