where to buy?

Hello, even I just registered, I thought I'd ask:

Since I now am a proud owner of the 5D Mark III with the kit 24-105 lens, I always liked ultra wide angle landscape and city photos. Used to have the Canon 10-22 and recently with the OM-D the 9-18.

I would like to add the Canon 16-35 f2.8 lens to my "Kit" I bought my camera at Frys 1. b/c it was a great deal, 2. if I have to exchange it for a fault its hassle free.

Now with the lens, I am not certain if I want to pay the extra sales tax and if there could potentially be something wrong or go wrong with it? B&H or local store hence Frys?

Where do you buy and whats your experience for lenses? Thank you.

I buy all my major photographic equipment from my local dealers. Pricing just as good and I help the local economy.

I buy nearly everything from Amazon or B&H. I don't expect any help from the store other than good service in getting me the product, so am not going to pay a lot more to buy local.

i bought all my stuff from b&h just cause I save on tax. but if i cant wait, or need the lens right away id buy locally
i love b&h though. 30 days to return something if you dont like it. simple process but you pay for sending it back.

B&H, Amazon, Adorama. I really like Adorama's no hassle return policy. Traded my 85L in for a new one a couple weeks ago and they paid for all the shipping costs.

You didn't say where you live. I assume you prefer to do your business at a brick and mortar store. Here in So-Cal where I live, there is Samy's Camera. If you watch their promotions you can handle the products and make your purchases tax free and get Canon promotional discounts, resulting in substantial savings . The key words being "watch their promotions". I have bought lenses and other photographic gear from Samy's and B&H, and have been pleased with their service and prices but I have never had to return any items. -rick

I usually buy from B&H, although my last two cameras were Canon refurbs through the Canon Loyalty Program.

There are a couple of local independent stores that seem pretty good, that I would prefer to use, but when I've tried it's been frustrating. For example, I was considering a 400/5.6 lens last year, but wanted to at least do a couple of test shots first. No local store could rent one, or even had one in stock. One store had one at their other location, and said they would have it sent over for me to try. After two frustrating weeks of trying to get this to happen, I ordered one from B&H, had it the next day.

i buy everything from Amazon, no hassles on the returns/exchanges.

I'm not a big fan of Amazon, but I've had good luck with B&H and Adorama. The closest physical camera store to me is close to an hour away, so I don't do much local shopping.

just bought it at B&H. thanks guys for your opinions