Help! I just recently thrashed my rebel XT after years of hard use. I have maintained it by sending it into Canon after big river trips or outings into the desert... However, it completely just died and I have a few different ideas about what to do.

I know professional models are built to be highly weather-resistant more-so than the prosumer/amateur models but how much more?

Should I buy a used professional model camera (Canon mark something) or just go with a new digital rebel? I feel like a used pro model will be stronger and more tough, able to take the abuse that inevitably ends up happening. Ideas? I want a camera that lasts me longer than a few years.

Thank you

Yes, if you have good lenses, then make the step up to a 1DsII. If you don't have good lenses yet, then think about a Nikon D300 instead.

do you have a budget? A used Nikon D200 can be had for around $500.

Check used prices at places like www.adorama.com or www.keh.com (I've happily bought from the latter multiple times). Your budget will likely determine what model you choose. I've used Canon xxD bodies for the past 5 years and they make a good features/cost balance for me. If I were shooting in the rain or lots of water I would probably move up to a Canon 1D body of some sort.
Best,
Andy

40D/50D can be had for under $1000. They have some weather sealing - much more than your XT would have.

The jump from an XT to a 40D is amazing. Thanks to all the new Canon cameras you can get a 40D for around $600-700 when just a year ago you would have been paying over $1000 for the same thing. It's a good time to be buying these used. Also, if you want a MKII you can get those now for ~$800-900.... A great camera that might suit your needs, although, so might the 40D.

Check out the buy and sell forum on this site.

canon 1 series

Here's one
Ok, if that's out of your budget, then the 7D is supposed to be weather sealed. A 40D is sealed better than any Rebel. (not as well as the 7D) I have the 40D and it is very solid.

This one is solid, too.

EBH

Hey Illegal-Smile,

A John Prine fan I assume?
Back to the subject……I have seen 1DmarkII for ridiculously low prices.
Some have been listed on FM for $800-900 a real steal.
You can buy a 40D for even less, a great bargain.