Hello List, my name's Richard and I'm still new here, but it seems like a nice group of users here. I have received some nice comments about the Image I posted a link to on the list to an image I shot with my Zeiss Pancolar on my 20D. (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3522/3267824103_9f55579064_b.jpg) Since I'm not yet a member of the "R" ownership club as of yet, I kind of felt a need to establish having some Chops as a Photographer if I'm going to be posting around these parts. As for "Shopping Frustration": I simply want to ask about any tips or info a list member might be able to pass along because, so far, the only thing I've been able to get with months of searching eBay, the 'Net, and Locally, for 'R' equipment is a terrible case of Shoppers Frustration. Everything I encounter seems to be outlandishly expensive limited editions, collectors items, and f0.0 Niche Lenses on the top end and the bottom end are all pricey near mint condition stuff commanding premium prices. Where the heck can I find the stuff someone's actually USED, that has wear on the outside, cleaning marks and (Heaven Forbid!) even a scratch in the coating. The "3 Cam" & ROM Lenses (?did I say that right?) might be the latest greatest, I surmise, but there must be something usable about those 1 cam or 2 cam lenses, too, isn't there? I'm willing to try em! Sigh. I will admit my budget is narrower than I would prefer to pick up an R lens or two, but it is 'enough' and if I'm willing to accept cosmetic conditions and even potential cla issues, it seems rather ___<insert cursing adjective>___ that I'm not encountering stuff like that out in the marketplace. Thanks for letting me Vent LRflex members. I'll find something to acquire. Imagemaking has always been an expression of my heart and quite rarely a source of income. Since becoming disabled, it's become an especially treasured activity because now that it isn't a casual endeavour anymore, just coming away with snapshots isn't very fulfilling. :-) Sincerely Richard W. West Michigan, USA ________________________________ Life is hard...but I just take it one photograph at a time. ~•~ "You miss 100% of the shots you never take" Wayne Gretzky ~•~ In a world without walls and fences, who needs Windows or Gates? ~•~ It's okay to be stupid. Just don't be gung-ho about it. ________________________________