Buy a Refurbed Lens?

[sallysue66]

I've asked for the Nikon 55-200 VR lens for Christmas and found it for $150 at Adorama. It's refurbed by Nikon. Sounds like a great deal...or should I buy new with the good warranty for about $50 more?

 

[IndyShutterbug]

I purchased a Canon 17-40 as a refurb and it has been nothing but great. While the cost difference was quite a bit more than $50 from the new one, I feel I made the right decision.
I would be hesitant to purchase a body as a refurb, but that is just me. On the lens, lots of times, you can talk the dealer down a bit on refurbs just like on used.
One thing to think about is the warranty. For $50 it might be worth it to get the warranty as a comfort barrier. My CPS membership helps me out on stuff like this, but it is always nice to have a warranty to back you up.

 

[edolyne]

I also bought a refurb lens from Adorama. Mine was the Canon 24-70 f/2.8, I saved quite a bit and still got a yr warrenty through Adorama. An advantage od buying refurb is that the lens is gone through by a factory tech and brought to spec so if it's a lens with a wide variation for quality you have a better chance of getting a good copy.

I have been quite pleased with mine and now always check for refurb before buying new.