Weathersealing of non-IF lenses

[EOS Man]

I've read that the EF 24-70 f2.8L is a weathersealed lens, completed with the use of a filter and 1-series body. But how about the zoom/focus rings and lens barrels - isn't water/rain/snow/etc able to seep in through the rings, or most probably on the extending part of the lens barrel? Or is there some blockade to prevent that? :confused:

[fWord]

Some people believe that regardless of Canon's claims, a lens that has an extending barrel (or a push-pull zoom mechanism for that matter), is not considered truly weather-sealed. Yes it's true that such extending parts will make the lens more prone to sucking in moisture and dust. But with Canon's reputation at stake here, I don't think they're likely to lie over such things.

Even the non-weather sealed stuff is surprisingly resilient. Case in point was a lens I used in persistent rain on more than one occasion during a vacation. It was not weather-sealed and it had an extending barrel. Nevertheless I had no issues with this lens after exposure to such moisture.

That said, all reasonable precaution should be taken with any camera gear. They're precision instruments with electronics...a single drop of water would fry them. Best is to be careful.

[EOS Man]

Thanks for the info. No wonder people put towels on their lenses when shooting in rain.

[Grentz]

I sure wouldn't want to risk my 24-105L in the rain even though they claim it is sealed.

Maybe someone more pro would, but for me when I drop that kind of money I try and give it the best care possible even if Canon says :p

[SunTsu]

I've taken my 5D and 24-105 into pouring rain once. I got an F00 readout 3 days later, but I'm not sure if that's related or if it's coincidental. Since then, I haven't had any problems with my camera or lens though.

[MagentaJoe]

Note to self: Don't buy SunTsu's used 5D.;)

[fWord]

I've taken my 5D and 24-105 into pouring rain once. I got an F00 readout 3 days later, but I'm not sure if that's related or if it's coincidental. Since then, I haven't had any problems with my camera or lens though.

That's probably just coincidental. I had the same problem once with a 350D and 70-200mm f/4. Both were well cared for, always kept in a dry box when not in use and they were never exposed to rain or moisture...other than that which is already in the air around us.

F00 probably indicates inadequate contact between the lens and the body or lens mount.

[cosworth]

Just an FYI to some readers, the 5D is not weather sealed. Don't get it wet.

Weather sealing rocks. Used it and loved it. Wish I had owned a 580 EX II though.