D80 Weakness?

[Gleneberg]

I'm new to digital photography, but have spent 40+ years with Nikon SLR's in my hands. I'm just now contemplating purchase of a Nikon D80. (I'm just a "serious amateur" so can't justify the $$$ for a D200). One thing concerns me...the construction in general of the new plastic DSLR's pales in comparison to the quality of my current Nikon FA. The FA is built like a Swiss bank vault in comparison. When doing my shopping I've observed a lot of D40's and D40X's on display, and a disproportionately large percentage of them have broken a broken retainer hook which holds the pop-up flash in the closed position. This seems like a pretty serious design flaw on the D40 and D40X, and I'm concerned about the same problem with the D80. Can anyone tell me about potential problems like this with the D80?
And while I'm in the question asking mood, can anyone tell me the difference between the D40X and the newly introduced D60? Thanks for your help...

[JoeMc]

Hello, Welcome to Byte.

As for the D80? Great camera with a pretty sturdy build. I did notice some give in the body when I bought fast and long lenses (70-200 vr f/2.8) It would just flex with that much weight on it...but the lens is a tank. I then upgraded to the D200 that has a alloy body and I love it. I also own the D300, but I still use the D200 as much or more than the D300.

As for the D60? I am really not sure? Check out dpreview.com
Any info you are looking for is on that site.
Cheers, Joe

[JoeMc]

I should also add that some like the plastic build better because of the weight.
Cheers, Joe