How can you check to see if lens is stolen before buying?

7 years 11 months ago #480507 by Nancy Hait
When meeting someone to buy a used lens, how can you quickly validate if they lens is not stolen?  


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7 years 11 months ago #480518 by SuzyM
I've registered my camera and lens on lenstag.com, but obviously if the stuff you want to buy isn't registered on the site it won't help you. I would ask for a proof of purchase of some kind, either the original receipt or a bill of sale if this person bought it second-hand.


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7 years 11 months ago #480524 by Glen Martin
Ask for a receipt


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7 years 11 months ago - 7 years 11 months ago #480526 by effron
Nikon.com also keeps a stolen gear database.....

What lens and how much would also tell a lot.....

Why so serious?
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7 years 11 months ago #480528 by Shadowfixer1
Short answer is you can't. The majority of people won't have proof of purchase. Personally, I keep the receipt in the box and I have all the boxes in a storage bag along with any unused straps, papers or whatever else it came with but the majority of people I know, don't do that.
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7 years 11 months ago #480532 by Denise Lattimer

Shadowfixer1 wrote: Short answer is you can't. The majority of people won't have proof of purchase. Personally, I keep the receipt in the box and I have all the boxes in a storage bag along with any unused straps, papers or whatever else it came with but the majority of people I know, don't do that.


+1 on this. At least when I sell my old stuff the people that buy it know it's legitimate!


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7 years 11 months ago #480544 by Screamin Scott
The vast majority of stolen items may never be recovered. Many steal items that they turn around & use, thus they may never show up on any sites. Most people can't even tell you what the serial number of the stolen gear is (except for pros, who need that info for insurance claims). You simply have to trust those with whom you are dealing with...

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

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7 years 11 months ago #480622 by Sam-Smith
Ask for receipt...and if it is refused to be given, complaint to consumer forum.


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7 years 11 months ago #480650 by Dan Spade
All the above is pretty much how it is.  I won't buy used unless they have copy of original receipt.  That way, I have at least peace of mind the item likely isn't stolen. 


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