Hi,
Take this how you wish, but I would also read the fine print of many of these sites. When looking on my own, I found one of these online scam artists that claimed to be an authorized Nikon dealer. I say scam artist because unless you dug far enough into their site, they would not tell you that - even if the camera was shipped by them and it was defective, damaged, or in perfectly great condition, and even if you never even opened the box, you had 10 days to return it and irregardless if you got it back to them via fed-ex in time - all returns would be charged a 20% restocking fee and you eat the shipping both ways. YOu had 10days from time of order, and there was no guarantee of when the camera would ship. I called Nikon, they were indeed a dealer, Nikon would not make any comments on how that particular site does business, but suggested that there are other options out there. (Hint Hint).
As of now, I am extremely happy to have purchased my gear from a local authorized dealer who I can walk into their professional store and get help any time I need it. They understood how the grey market is hurting their honest business, and they were also kind enough to offer a small discount to help bring the purchase into a level playing field. Full warranty. I appreciate their service, they appreciate my business, and I understand that running elsewhere to save some money isnt going to keep the reputable sources in business who are tking risk and costs of operation in order to help me and earn customers.
Besides, I have the camera, I'm using it, playing, learning so much, enjoying it, impressing my friends all while others keep searching for the "best deal" and aren't even in the game yet...
Get going I say...life's too short.
