Need Quick Thoughts on the Canon 35-135 USM

[spin180]

I've got the opportunity to acquire a Canon EF 35-135mm f/4-5.6 USM lens relatively cheaply. Would it be worth it? I am a newbie and will be using it with my 300D as such; general purpose, a walk-around if you will

I'm wanting/needing a lens like this and it seems it would fit the bill for me. I understand it's no longer in production, having been replaced by the 28-135 f/3.5-5.6. I've searched on it and haven't found much about it at all. Though what I did seemed to be generally positive.

Anyone care to offer their thoughts, suggestions, comments?

Thanks!

[tim]

Hmmm, it's a little slow for a walkaround lens. The sucessor has IS which partly makes up for it. For $100 though it might be ok.

[blackviolet]

there are some good samples on pbase (http://www.pbase.com/cameras/canon/ef_35-135_4u)- it seems to be a pretty decent lens. i suppose it all depends on whether the image is decent for you at that price...

[HKFEVER]

Very good price, OK len.

But 100.00 is too good to be true even used.

[ron chappel]

us$100 + - doesn't sound too little ,that's about right for a 'i've scored a bargain' price :D
Just make sure it's working and has no stuff in the glass (fungus is the most likely of any problems)

I've seen no bad comment about that model lens anywhere but also no owners raving about what a gem it is.
It was one of canon's then midrange models,none of which i've heard bad things about ,so definitely a safe bet as an OK lens (at least)

[Olegis]

I would go for it for $100, but be sure to check everything first and see that everything is working as it should be. Shoot a few pictures with it and then examine them on you PC - take your time, don't let the seller put a stress on you. Shoot at all apertures to see that the blades don't stick, see if the IS functions as it shoud (the image in the viewfinder becomes steady once you half-press the shutter), and absolutely make sure that there are no defects on the lens elements.

[blackviolet]

i don't think it has IS... but yeah, definitely check for fungus. also check the af/mf switch and the focus capability. getting it cleaned/fixed/element replaced could cost more than the $100 - if they even still make the parts

[HKFEVER]

Try not to buy used len, you don't know where they have been. Same as one night stand without any safety device on:oops:

[Olegis]

i don't think it has IS...

Ooops, for some reason I got fixed on the 28-135 I saw in the original post... Didn't notice the 35-135 part ... Sorry.

Try not to buy used len, you don't know where they have been

HKFEVER, there is nothing wrong with buying used equipment, as long as you care to make sure that everything works and the things are in a good shape (it's up to you to define what a "good-shape" is).

[HKFEVER]

HKFEVER, there is nothing wrong with buying used equipment, as long as you care to make sure that everything works and the things are in a good shape (it's up to you to define what a "good-shape" is).
Agree. but it is very hard for a seller to let the buyer to carefully try out their lens on site, unless it is a store.

Also it is very hard for buyer to carry all the gear including computer to check the picture out.

Besides, the lens' location may be far away form the buyers' home.

But, try to exam the lens as much as you can, take your time.

I have hit my 16-35 on a clif very very light force, no visable damage:mad: . Since then the picture just not sharp again (check under100% in a monitor). Now it is in Canon for adjustment, and I will have it back in next week.

[Olegis]

I bought used lenses twice (Canon 70-200 f/2.8L and Sigma 15-30). In case of Canon 70-200, I met with the owner, tried the lens on my 10D and told him that I would get back to him with an answer. Then I went home and examined the pictures - I was very satisfied with the quality, so I called the seller and arranged additional meeting after a short price negotiation.

In case of Sigma, the seller and I met in his house, I shot a few pictures and examined them on his PC. They sure showed the quality of the lens, so I bought it immediately.

What I mean is - never buy ANY used lens, without actually trying it first and seeing what it's capable of. The lens is very complicated electronic / mechanic device, and even the slightest defect can cause problematic images (misfocus, wrong exposure etc) - that's why it's so important to try it first AND see the results.

[WestFalcon]

I've had 4 or 5 of these over the years and they are good lenses for the money. Go for it.