If you buy a used lens from a reputable camera dealer or through an online classifieds site, you’re getting the benefit of a return period and expert inspection. But what about buying a used lens directly from a seller you’ve met in person?
A few scratches or dents on a lens can be forgiven, but serious damage could cost you. Learn what to look for.
Price
Equipment adds up, and some people buy their lenses second-hand for financial reasons. There are plenty of good and honest sellers willing to part with gear, although scammers are a risk too. The best option is to stick with large camera retailers and sellers with a good reputation, who offer warranties and return policies private sellers cannot.중고렌즈
Look for signs of fungus, scratches and damage to the lens elements. Examine the threads for filter attachment carefully – if they are cross-threaded it is an indication of improper handling or poor care.
Ask why the seller is selling – there are many valid reasons, from switching systems to a lens that doesn’t suit their style of shooting. A lack of reason to sell may indicate hidden problems. Look at the condition of the packaging – any dents or marks could mean the lens has been mistreated in transit. It is also worth asking how well the lens works – is it soft or does it produce sharp images?테크노마트카메라
Tests
Even with today’s highly-controlled production methods there are still variations between lenses. So, before you part with your cash for a second-hand lens, perform these five simple tests.
Examine the glass elements for scratches and cleaning marks, especially on the front element (although these may not affect image quality). Also look for separation between the front and rear elements, which will appear as white marks around the edges of the elements and is a severe defect that can be repaired at a cost that far exceeds the value of the lens.
Shine a not-too-bright flashlight in the lens, but don’t get it too close to your eyes! This will help you to see dust, fungus and other internal damage. A good lens will not show much, but if you see lots of fine dust hairs it might indicate rough usage and should be avoided. Also test the focus and zoom rings, a newer lens should move smoothly.
Warranty
Even entry level camera gear adds up quickly, which is why many new photographers opt to buy used lenses. While this is a great way to save money, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved when buying secondhand lenses.
Make sure to look for the warranty offered by the manufacturer on the lens you’re interested in. These warranties, called express or implied, guarantee that the product will perform according to certain specifications. They can range from free repairs to replacement.
Ask the seller to mount the lens on their camera and thoroughly test it out before making a purchase. This is the best way to get a realistic sense of the condition of the lens. Be especially wary of sellers who refuse to do this and are vague with their descriptions. Examine the lens for dirt, smudges, scratches and wear marks. Dents on the lens barrel are a greater concern, as they could indicate a hard drop that can damage optical quality.
Returns
Unfortunately, when you buy a used lens from a private seller (or even a camera shop) you don’t have the peace of mind of store returns and manufacturer warranties. That doesn’t mean that it is impossible to find good glass, but it does mean you need to be very careful.
The first thing you should do with any lens is physically inspect it. A little dust and scratches shouldn’t be a big deal, but serious dents or evidence of fungus or mold could be a sign that the lens wasn’t properly stored or handled. If you can, ask the seller if they’d be comfortable with you mounting the lens on your camera and testing it thoroughly before you hand over any cash. That way, you’ll know exactly what you are getting and will have a much better chance of making a fair decision about the purchase. If they are unwilling to give you this opportunity, you’re probably better off finding another seller.