what's the deal with NY camera stores???

[BirderSean]

I've browsed a lot of their websites, where they list ridiculous prices
for bins, but then I've heard a lot of horror stories.
e.g cambridgeworld.com

Are any of these stores reliable?
How many of you folks order from these people?

[chartwell99]

I've browsed a lot of their websites, where they list ridiculous prices
for bins, but then I've heard a lot of horror stories.
e.g cambridgeworld.com

Are any of these stores reliable?
How many of you folks order from these people?

B & H Photo and Adorama are totally reliable, although often completely unknowledgeable about what they are selling. If the price on a binocular is even or close, I prefer to order from Eagle Optics (no shipping cost, very helpful recommendations and advice and generous return policy).

[Steve C]

I do a lot of business with CameralandNY and they are an absolute top end outfit. They DO NOT hassle you and are top notch in price and service.

[Tero]

Cambridgeworld...avoid. No real data, just rumors.

There are many outfits out there that only do bait and switch.

Adorama is reliable.

[John M Robinson]

I have read absolute horror stories regarding Cambridgeworld, they are basically dishonest based on the many reviews I have read. On the other hand I got a good deal and very good service from Adorama. Camerland NY is the shop by which all optics shops should be judged. Very personable and knowledgeable about binoculars and spotting scopes, I assume cameras as well, and very good prices, especially on their demo stuff which is virtually new.

[Kevin Purcell]

I do a lot of business with CameralandNY and they are an absolute top end outfit. They DO NOT hassle you and are top notch in price and service.

I second that. Even though they do ship from Brooklyn their store is in Manhattan ;)

Check resellarratings.com and search in google: it will generally show up the bad eggs.

Not all NYC camera/optics stores are bad. 17th St Camera gets good reviews (not used it but see the ratings).

We have the technology to check and not to make assumptions now.

Except for stores in Brooklyn (perhaps Abe's of Maine is the only one with a good rep, AFAIK). Then you really need to check them out.

[Pinewood]

I have dealt, in person with B&H, Adorama, and Cameraland. I bought demos from both B&H and Cameraland. My favorites is Cameraland because they are knowledgeable.

Happy bird watching,
Arthur