Buying second hand?

[stealthwolf]

Awesomeness. The 35mm was what I was looking at (35x1.6=56mm) for a "nifty fifty" at some point.

[DubFan]

Fair enough.

50mm on a crop gives you something closer to the classic portrait length (50x1.6 =80). But the 24-105 would have that covered (albeit without the low f-stop). My old 28-70 f2.8 was good for portraits, but on a crop sensor I missed the width.
But as said, it depends what you're used to. I've had a 50mm prime on my crop sensor for a couple of years and am used to it, but I recently got a 35mm prime (vintage m42) and it's taking a bit to get used to the width.

It also depends on what you're shooting. In some senses it's actually good to get a kit with a lens or two and then work out what you're shooting more of and what the limitations are of the kit you have.

[DubFan]

On another note, if you were looking at HDEW for your new camera, read their FAQ:
http://www.hdewcameras.co.uk/store-policiesfaq-2-w.asp

"Are all products guaranteed for UK repair"

Yes. All products can be repaired in the UK. The guarentee covers mechanical faults parts and labour. Please note accidental damage or misuse is not covered by the guarentee. If a product purchased from us develops a fault give us a call and we can give you the instructions for the appropriate repair centres.

 Product Guarantee

 

All products come with a standard 1-year manufacturers warranty based on the sales invoice you receive with the product. All you need is to keep the invoice.

 

In addition we supply an extended cover to allow you to have the product repaired for a further 2 years (3 year guarentee in total). You need to keep the sales invoice and the Xtendcover card, which comes with the product.

 
Please note many but not all of our offers include the extended guarantee. This is clearly indicated in the titles of the products or bundles for sale. (Extended warranties are only placed on Camera or Camcorder units not Accessories or Lenses)

Naturally if the product is delivered with a fault then a replacement will be supplied.

For a £500 camera I would be happy with that. If you were spending £3k on a new 5D3 and L glass, then maybe you'd want a non grey import.