To Fix or not to Fix? Nikkor 12-24 F4

[Nismo200SX]

okay so I finally got the estimate on the repair of my Nikkor 12-24 F4 its a Class C repair that is priced at $599.99 so about 671.98

I brought the lens in because the filter got dented and can't be removed and dust was building up behind the filter so when there was light shining into the lens it would catch the dust and turn into nice bright circles in the photos. If it wasn't for the dust behind the filter I probably would not have brought the lens in for repair.

There seems to be a lot of these lens on Craigslist. Should I just buy one on craigslist or get mine repaired?

I just bought a tokina 11-16 2.8 which I'm using now while Nikon still has my lens.

I've still got some time before the estimate expires and they give me my lens back.

Will the lens come back like brand new? will the repair fix the focus and softness ?

[Senna4ever]

Well, on paper it should come back like new, but from my experience with both Canon & Nikon repair, that's not always the case. For example, I had to send in a 85mm f1.4G for cleaning as a big speck of dust found its way inside the lens, but when it came back, it had what looked like a palm print on the INSIDE of the back element which most certainly was not there when I sent it in. You'd think they would catch such a glaring thing, but no. Always check your lens as soon as you get it back, even if you did send it in to the manufacturer. Nikon will rectify it at no cost though.

Whether you get it repaired or write it off is totally up to you - which will make the most sense to you financially?

[hellyeah08]

There are a couple copies of that lens float around on craigslist all going for about 600~650, so its your call.
I really like my 12-24 tho, its anti flare and ghosting ability makes it a awesome lens, but if you think the tokina is a better, faster, sharper and defenatey wider for your need, than just keep the tokina

[Nismo200SX]

I decided not to get it fixed. I'm just gonna try and removing that dented filter myself or a shop that might be able to for a small charge.

After using the Tokina for the last few weeks man I miss the range on the 12-24 and the CA's on the Tokina at times gets annoying. I don't have a filter on the lens right now. Was thinking about the Hoya HD filters probably.

If I really want another one i'll just pick one up on Craigslist and turn my old one into my collection piece.