120g first build tank - Would you rather...?

[SaltySTL]

I have never bought a new tank, alway used. I try to buy from members of my local reef club, generally a little better experience over random person on marketplace. that said my last 2 were off market place. both killer deals.



125g 6' tank stand, canopy, sump, 3 g4 xr30s, 60" t5, 150 lbs dry rock, 57w uv, magus 7 skimmer- was $500

This tank is currently setup and running,
I am upgrading to a 300 which i recently bought. this one needs a bit more work

300G shallow 96x30x24 tall, 125g sump, no stand(was a built in) 3 nib skimz l160 pumps, skimmer, 140g frag tank, 45g frag tank, was a huge bundle deal -$1100

deals can be had if you don't mind some work. I would not be in this hobby if I bought new.

My $500 125g

Wow! Those are great deals. Awesome to hear about the success stories of used setups.

 

[reefmaster70]

regarding used tanks. I've NEVER bought a new tank when there are so many good deals out there from people just tired of working with tanks. One thing you really need to do is go look at the tank, preferably it's still set up and running. Then you can see the equipment working and tank and sump holding water, etc. You can also get a very good idea of the type of care the person took of the tank and equipment. I'd never buy one that is sitting in someone back shed for 4 years, or in the basement under the kitty litter box or being used as a clothes hamper next to the washing machine. That just show neglect and lack of care on the previous owners part. Go for a nice used tank that has been kept clean and the equipment is running good, there is no salt creep all over, or dried on hard water deposits. You'll know in a heartbeat if the tank is worth buying simply by seeing it and talking to the P.O and getting a feel for them and how they kept their equipment. Good luck

 

[charleydavis]

My first build may be a bit ambitious. I am going for a 120 gallon setup, fish only with live rock in the beginning. I would appreciate some opinions on a few options for my initial tank acquisition. I'm fairly handy and not afraid of drilling and plumbing. If you were in my shoes which tank option would you rather start with?

Option 1 - Facebook Marketplace Marineland reef ready 120g (4x2x2) tank with dual corner overflows with two 1" bulkheads in each overflow. Only used 1 year before a house move. Super clean but has not held water in 4 years (stored in basement). Includes stand and spare 55 gallon tank. $400

Option 2 - Facebook Marketplace Aqueon brand 120g (4x2x2) tank. Was setup and running as a freshwater system until yesterday. Seller sent me pics of the before and after. Super clean with a nice looking stand. $400.

Option 3 - Save my pennies until I can buy a brand new tank and stand.

Option 4 - Other?

Any thoughts and questions are welcome.

Option 3.

 

[vandy]

If you're looking for used equipment for your tank hit me up! I have a large ebay presence but i'm local to STL so i could cut you some nice deals if I don't have to ship