Where to buy a lens on the Internet?

[Lonewolf]

I've decided to go with the Canon 70-200 f/4 L.

Who would you recommend buying it from on the Internet?

I've heard the stories about quality control and focusing problems so I'd want to make my purchase from a dealer that allows me time to test the lens and return it if there's a problem.

Thanks for your help - Wayne.

[tim]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com - I buy all my gear from there, they're reasonably priced, trustworthy, and reliable. I've returned gear for the reason "I don't like it" and had no problem.

[robertwgross]

B&H is not a bad place to start. There are several other big names, and they operate pretty good (I think there is a sticky on vendors). Check reseller ratings if you have any doubts about the vendor that you have chosen. Then, if you are not absolutely clear, you can ask back here.

However, I only buy things from B&H or the other big online vendors if it is something that I think is relatively foolproof, because I personally do not like the hassle of returning something. If I really need that hands-on, warm and fuzzy feeling about a purchase, then I go to my local Canon dealer. Not the expensive one up the street, but the slightly cheaper one down the street. On the other hand, if I think I save save a ton of money on a purchase and still deal with a reputable vendor online, then I will go back that way.

---Bob Gross---

[MegaTron]

Also check, www.buydig.com and www.onecall.com.

[Macavity]

I usually buy my stuff from B&H as well, although I just ordered the Tamron from Canoga Cameras (http://www.canogacamera.com).

I wish I had a store locally that I could patronize, but besides the Wolf's, there are only two camera shops and one of them is exclusively Nikon. The other one is just too small, and never really has anything in stock that I am interested in. If gas wasn't so expensive, I'd drive to Nashville more often to shop at Dury's, but for now, I just shop online.

[fortinaa]

I've had positive purchases from Adorama, Beach Camera, BH photo, and Canoga. Luckily, I've never had to return anything. If you do, I'm under the assumption that you are going to be responsible for all shipping and insurance. So, if you can get it at a local store and be around the price you can get it and figure on possibly shipping it back, deal locally. Most local stores (at least in my area) are being pounded by big online outlets, so they offer a customer service that goes beyond the norm. I've been told things like, the normal return policy is 14days, but if you need more, just let me know.