Buying “Tanks” of the 2000s: A Dream for Reasonable Money

Cameras **Nikon D700, D300s, D3 and D3s** are the gold standard of digital photography. In our workshop these models cause Sincere respect: monolithic magnesium housings, beautiful color of 12-megapixel sensors and incredible survivability curtains

Today these cameras are sold on Avito from 15 to 40 thousand rubles. But 90% of them have a huge combat path behind them. What to look for when checking?

1. Cosmetics camouflage, EXIF ​​reveals

Resellers have learned to perfectly prepare these carcasses for sale: they stick on Chinese rubber bands for 1,500 rubles, touch up the abrasions with matte paint and wipe the bayonet mount.

But **it is impossible to hide the counter in the `ShutterCount` tag with fake rubber bands**!

2. Mileage assessment D700 / D3s: What do we consider normal?

• Up to 100,000 frames:A rare find (“time capsule”). The shutter didn't even pass its equator life. You can take it without a doubt.
• 100,000 – 250,000 frames:Excellent working condition. The camera will easily serve for another 3-5 years active filming.
• Over 400,000 frames:The carcass is running out of resources. You can only buy with a discount on future replacement of curtains.

Summary table for legendary models

Model	Passport resource	Real range
Nikon D300/D300s	150,000	250,000 – 350,000 frames
Nikon D700	150,000	400,000 – 600,000 frames
Nikon D3/D3s	300,000	700,000 – 1,000,000+ frames