I found a factory demo D200 in mint condition for $1290. What do you guys think? Are factory demo's dependable? The camera comes with everything original from Nikon and a full 1 year warranty. Your inputs are appreciated.

Anybody??

I prefer refurbs over factory demo's. There's no sure way to know what sort of abuse the demo has already survived. Atleast with the refurbs they've gone through serious testing before they get sent back out.

What the rep said is that these are not camera store demos, 'cuz that was my concern. He said that the cameras come from the Nikon factory after they have been thouroughly tested. He also said that the cameras are rated, mint condition, excellent, good, fair, or poor depending on whether or not the camera has blemishes or damages. The one I am looking at says it's in mint condition.

The other thing is that I get 14 days to return it if something doesn't look right. The kit I am looking at also includes the vertical grip and an extra battery for $1470 including shipping. What do you think?

Whatever the rep says he needs to be willing to put it in writing and you need the be comfortable asking him for said document. Sounds good, but you want to make sure all your bases are covered before plunking down your hard-earned dineros. Good luck!

It is in writing, he showed me where in the kit's online ad at their store is specifically says what a factory demo is. I also googled Nikon D200 factory demo and I found some forums saying that most of the time the demos are fine. I have been trying to cover my bases as best as possible. Thanx for your inputs.

That's a hell of a deal on it. Make sure that there's no re-stocking fee because if there is it'll probably be like 20% which will suck. But yes if it says mint, it's in writing and there's a low or now restocking fee then go for it!

Well, I just placed the order and the camera will be here next week on Wed. or Thurs. I will make an update here with the camera's condition after I get it. One thing I will need from the D200 users, is how to determine the total number of shutter actuations on the camera. That is one of the 1st things I want to check, 'cuz that information was not available.