400mm f5.6 L

[pmarz]

I am agonizing over buying this lens. Anyone out there with firdt hand experience?

[tommykjensen]

IanD have loads of experience with this lens, have a look at some of his many great posts with owls.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/search.php?searchid=88442

I hope this link works....

[CyberDyneSystems]

Take a look at this thread ,. it compares it to the 100-400mm Zoom,. but it still a good source of info from some first hand users.

It's big plusses are crystal clear sharp images, the fastest focus of any Supertele lens under $3K and excellent focus tracking.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=43436

[Scottes]

It's a fantastic lens, and quite a good price. If you're even thinking about it, just get it.

[pmarz]

Thanks for the replies, they are helpful.

[CoolToolGuy]

Go for it. Most long zooms are used mostly at the long end. The 400 f5.6L will not disappoint you in image quality or AF speed.

Have Fun,

[IanD]

The 400 f/5.6 is really sweet. Very fast AF and razor sharp. Perhaps the least expensive way to go "long". The majority of my owl images were captured whith this lens.
Look here (http://www.pbase.com/giant001/owls)

[defordphoto]

Love the 400. The AF is fast and does not hunt in low light like the 100-400 (which I also own and love). Get it. You won't regret it. Nice and sharp, even wide open. Fairly light too so not too hard on the neck and shoulders for those long days.

[foxbat]

I own it and love it. I'm constantly amazed at the sharpness, colour and contrast that it produces. Its an absolute bargain at the price. Every bird photographer should own one.

Here's some excellent photographs taken with this lens:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=53984
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=53575

[HJMinard]

I love mine! Here's a couple more examples:

http://www.pbase.com/hjminard/image/36346944.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/hjminard/image/38270277.jpg

[timmyquest]

I love hearing about the fast AF...and obvious sharp images. But damn, why no IS canon WHY?!

[dito]

I have a 400f5.6 and 600f4. I really love my 600, but when the 600 is too long (yes too long) the 400 is great. Cons... f5.6, poor when light is not optimal, AF may not work with TC (without the tape method) on certain bodies like 10D. Just make sure you have a MKII and there won't be a problem. or just get a 600 to go along with it...