used speedlights

i'm not adverse to buying used bodies and lenses, but i've never purchased used speedlights, any issues with trying to save a bit of money and going used (canon 430 ex ii specifically).

The Canon speedlites are very well built. If it working normally when you get it, it will probably continue to do so.

Ive got speedlites thst are 30 years old. Just check that it functions normally and the bounce and rwist work freely and the head zooms.

You should hear a subtle double buzz when you turn it on. Recharging should be silent. The head should zoom smoothly and quietly. Pull the wide panel and if the zoom is set to anything other than manual 24mm, the head should zoom to that setting and the display show 14mm. Stow the wide panel and the zoom should return to the previous setting.

My 430EX II is seven years old and it doesn't look or function any differently than when it was new.

And if you have one of the cameras that have a flash control menu, attach the flash and make sure the camera recognizes it and can change modes, power settings, custom functions, etc. That indicates a good hot shoe connection.

I purchased a used 430 EXII off of here about a year ago. So far no issues at all. I also have one that I purchased new about 2 yrs ago now. The only way I can tell which is which, is to look up the serial number in my inventory database.

That said there's always a risk, so try to be cautious when buying used.