Buying used Lenses

[britt777]

Can anyone tell me what to look for when buying a used lens and what do the numbers mean on the back of the lens. Example US1114?
Thanks for any tips or comments

Brittany

[liza]

Not sure about the numbers on the lenses, although I bet the Canon website could shed some light on that. I buy used all the time and the only regrets I've had were when I didn't research the lens first. I buy used stuff from Fred Miranda's site and from www.keh.com.

[britt777]

thanks, the numbers represent dates manufactured. What would we do without the internet....lol. Thanks

[deadpass]

right, the U is what plant it was made it, the S means it was made in 2004, U is 2006. check out this site for a full explanation of the date code http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Canon-Lenses/Canon-Lens-Aging.aspx

[mrclark321]

Britt the first two numbers represent year and place it was made:
UV-2007
UU-2006
UT-2005
US-2004

the "11 represents the 11th month and the last two digits I don't know.
Hope this helps

Dan

[britt777]

Thanks so much for the replies. I am looking at a lens with UF1100 for number. Meaning november, 1991. Says lens has not been used much if at all. Would anyone consider buying or should I stay away?

[BrandonSi]

Why don't you ask for some sample images.. preferably at a few specific focal lengths at different aperture settings.. like 24mm @ f/2.8, f5.6, etc..

[britt777]

Thanks, I will do that.
Any other tips or suggestions would be great

[WildWolf]

1991???? This lens must be real cheap! I personally would be nervous that some of the parts may break due to age and that Canon no longer has the parts to repair. I think this is the case with the magic drainpipe (although I could be wrong). Ask for many shots from the lens to verify focus and sharpness. Think about a car from 1991 that hasn't been used much- things still break over time. Good luck with your decision.

[mrclark321]

Britt I baught a 70-200 f/2.8 that was in the same age bracket and it needed $300 in repairs. After it was tack sharp and the seller payed the bill but be carefull. For me I only try to buy less than a year old.

Dan

[britt777]

thanks for the comments, This is just as I figured, just wanted some opinions. I am going to pass on this lens. I just thought the price was good.

[AirBrontosaurus]

Ask for sample shots wide open, at widest and telephoto-est settings (if it's a zoom), and then ask the seller to send you a picture within the "Sweet spot."

I personally prefer to buy used. That way, assuming an honest seller like the ones you find on POTN, you know the lens will be sharp and mechanically ok.

[Layston]

I've bought all my lenses (except the kit) used and I think I've been very lucky. I ask for sample picture both of the lens itself to see the physical external condition and also of the glass. Then I ask for images taken from the lens. For instance refer to this "for sale" I put up when I sold my 75-300.

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=262686

If it is a CANON lens and not a third party, I wouldn't be too concerned with the age if you like the pictures it takes. My FD manual focus lenses from the 70s still take beautiful pictures. But the price has to be right. Compare it to ebay auctions etc and read reviews. If it is a lens you want, it can be a great deal, if it doesn't "feel" right, walk away fast.