Question about refurbished cameras (Canon, Olympus, prices, photos)

[wyoquilter]

Okay so I really would like to get my son (some may have read my earlier post) a really nice camera that he can use to take nature photos with. I just can't afford the prices for the cameras that would be good starter cameras.

What are your opinions about purchasing a refurbished or remanufactured camera? Are there any sites that have been trusted sellers of refurbished cameras? Are there any on ebay that anyone knows if they are trusted sellers? I only ask about ebay because I saw a few refurbished cameras from sellers that had a high seller ratings and the cameras come with a 1 year manufacture warranty.

Thanks for your imput. I just really want to get him a nice Christmas gift this year. It's his last year that he will be a "kid" for Chritsmas. I could maybe wait to get it for his B-day next month when he becomes a "man" if anyone thinks there may be some gret deals on cameras after the holidays.

[BagongBuhay]

Adorama sells used cameras. I think B&H does also although I have no experience in warranties provided on refurbished cameras. Overstock.com also sells refurbished electronics. I purchased a refurbished DVD player there a couple of years ago for my sister and she has not had any problems with it since. I'm sure there are other posters who would be able to provide you with first hand experience.

[WyoNewk]

I've bought a couple refurbished cameras. They only came with 3-month warranties. One was a professional Canon model (EOS 1D) and the other a high-end Olympus. I'd be suspicious of claims of a full-year manufacturer's warranty.

Mine both were in new condition and I never had any problems with either one. One was purchased through eBay and the other... I think it was Cameta Camera. I've also bought a couple refurbished negative scanners that were like new.

I've only heard of one complaint about refurbished cameras, and it apparently was scuffed and scratched pretty badly. I don't know how you'd insure that wouldn't happen, but it must be pretty rare. It was an Olympus, and I think I read about it a couple years ago.