On Tue, 29 Sep 1998 22:55:04 -0400, "Michael A. Covington" wrote:

>I've started a Nikon system and am beginning to think about one day
>purchasing a used F3HP or F4.
>
>What is the risk that, if I bought a used camera from a professional, it
>would be worn out, i.e., near the end of its mechanical life, even if
>functioning perfectly at time of purchase?
>
>Does anyone have stories to tell?
>
>I wouldn't wear a camera out myself -- I take maybe 1000 pictures a year,
>maximum -- but often need specialized camera features.

It is pretty easy to spot well-worn bodies...
With manual advance, once you've felt a new one,
slop and roughness in the advance will be obvious.
Easier is looking inside. If there is little paint
wear where the cartridge edges strike, there is little
"parallel lining" visible on the pressure plate when
viewed at an angle that reflects light off the plate,
and there is little visible surface wear on shutter
leaves or curtain leading edges, chances are good
that there has been little wear. BTW, I would not
generally buy a camera from a pro (who often view
these as expendable supplies, and use horrendous
amounts of film...), but from an amateur...