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Check the physical condition
Online or in-person, consider the condition of any second-hand lens.
Usage scuffs are normal, but watch out for signs of more significant damage.
Be alert to dust and fungus in the optics, and confirm that rings turn smoothly.
If youre buying online, test the lens as soon as it arrives.
Shoot a number of images across the focal range.
If you find an issue, return it under warranty.
The snag is that youll need pretty deep pockets to stock your camera bag with brand-new barrels.
Fortunately, theres another option.
If you shop smart, second-hand camera lenses can offer fantastic value.
Many of these come with a warranty, too.
If youre shooting with an older camera, youll often find more lens options available if you shop second-hand.
Some of the best DSLR cameras have now been retired, and many of their compatible lenses discontinued.
But theres a good chance you’ve got the option to find used examples on the market.
Transparent and detailed grading means you should know exactly what youre getting before you hit the buy button.
Most sites have a spectrum of ratings, spanning through good, excellent and pristine.
Because certain entry-level cameras lack an internal autofocus motor, some lenses can only be used in manual mode.
Youll also want to look at the features of a lens.
Focal length is another factor, if youre not shooting with one of thebest full-frame cameras.
When youre shopping for second-hand lenses in particular, there are specific things to think about.
First is the cosmetic condition, which will usually form a core part of any grading assessment.
Youll pay more for a pristine used lens.
If you dont mind a few scuffs and scratches, this is an easy way to save some cash.
The best online retailers will include several detailed images of the actual lens that youre buying.
Optical condition is next.
That means assessing the lens for marks on the glass and any dust inside the barrel.
Last on the list is functionality.
While AF issues are unusual, theyre not unheard of, so it pays to buy with a warranty.
Which are the best second-hand camera lenses?
A quick look online reveals the sheer volume of second-hand camera lenses currently on offer.
The market for used glass is buoyant, particularly as people look to save money in todays inflationary economy.
All of this is great news if youre looking for a good deal on a second-hand lens.
Youll find everything from affordable 35mm glass to high-end fixed telephoto barrels available online.
We cant possibly list all of the top options here.
Its impressively sharp yet relatively compact.
Its also pretty pricey when new.
Fortunately, second-hand examples can offer a significant discount.
Besides its fantastically versatile range, it delivers surprisingly impressive image quality.
New, it will set you back a penny shy of $900 / 1,000 from Canon.
Once again, you could save a lot by shopping second hand.
