Hi--

>Just read one of your messages where you were 'knocking' the way a guy
>had listed gear for sale as mint condition but you apparently saw it an
>it was EX+ to EX-.
> I am writing to you because I have a lot of camera gear that I would
>like to sell, but I have never tried to sell gear before. I'm guilty of
>using gear until something new comes out and then keeping the old stuff
>around for back up and then sentimental reasons.
> Is there a way that I could learn about how to describe the condition
>of my gear in terms that would be acceptable to someone like yourself
>and in a clear way.
> I guess I am asking for your help and advice.
> Can you guide or point me in the right direction?
> junebug@wwnet.com

Rather than tring to use a rating system, a simple description works
fine and is clear, as in, "No marks at all on glass, a few small marks
in the paint, with one showing metal through the paint, and one small
ding next to the (----); functionally, it is a good user, though the
(----) shows a little wear in use". Or something like that. Comment
(honestly!) on glass, mechanics, and looks, noting any defects in
a general way (an interested buyer can stop there, or ask more
questions). People appreciate honesty, and a happier sale results
from the buyer finding the gear as described (or nicer than expected,
though under-rating gear has the hazzard of having fewer interested buyers, but fewer returns).
David Ruether