Most of my gear is now refurbished. I usually sit and wait for 15% off deals, but have bought a few things at "full" refurbished prices. Current gear that I have that is refurbished includes:
- 16-35 f/4 IS
- 24-70 II
- TSE 24 mm II
- 40 mm STM
- 70-300 L
- Flash: 270 EX II
I actually prefer the refurbished gear. My take is that instead of coming off an assembly line, each piece is "fixed"/adjusted by a technician. I've used a refurbished 24-70II for a couple years now. My most used lens with no issues. Most of the others where picked up in the last year as I rounded out my FF kit. I've used the 16-35, 70-300 L pretty extensively and am very happy with them.
Only thing you don't get is a nice box. Most of my refurbished gear has shown up in bubble wrap inside a camcorder box.
You should write for TV shows....that is the best cliff hanger of the season. What is your next purchase???? 1DX II??? 5DsR??? The Hasselblad MF mirrorless