Canon EOS 3000 Body Only

The cheap way into a very good system. Canon released the EOS 3000 in 1999 as their budget SLR, but they didn't strip it back the way budget usually implies — you get the full set of modes including proper manual, aperture and shutter priority, three-point autofocus and six-zone metering, in a body light enough to carry all day. The real appeal is the mount: it's EF, so anything from a $30 nifty fifty to modern L glass will bolt straight on, and if you're already shooting a Canon DSLR your lenses just work. A sensible first film SLR, and a sensible backup body if you've already got one.

Specs

• 35mm autofocus SLR, Canon EF mount
• Vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter, 30s to 1/2000 plus B
• Three-point autofocus with a central cross-type sensor
• Six-zone evaluative metering, plus partial and centre-weighted
• Full auto, P, Av, Tv, M and the scene modes
• DX film coding, ISO 25–5000 (6–6400 set manually)
• Built-in pop-up flash, hot shoe
• Motorised wind and rewind
• Runs on two CR123A lithium cells
• Around 345g, body only

Condition / testing: These haven't been film tested, but we've confirmed each powers on and operates (shutter fires, controls respond, etc.). Sold with a 2-month warranty for peace of mind.