Canon 300 2.8 IS V1

I have noticed here lately their have been a bunch of the IS v1 models up for sale. Is canon going to discontinue support of this one like the non IS?
I know it not being manufactured so parts will start to be limited, just wondering.
Seems to be a common thing with canon. Does Nikon do the same?

Eventually support will stop for all lenses--including those being produced currently. The only question is how many years from now.

I just checked the Classified: Sell listings and the first 300mm f/2.8L IS for sale was on page 7. Its a fine lens that will be in use for many years to come. I'm using mine much less often since purchasing the 400 and going FF.

Tell us what you need the 300/2.8 for and perhaps we can offer other choices.

stargazer77517 wrote in post #15865169
Is canon going to discontinue support of this one like the non IS?

The Pre IS model was replaced in 1999 with the IS version 1.
I don't recall the actual date, but I think support and parts starting becoming a problem for that pre IS generation of super telephotos around 2006-2007.

I'd say it's safe to assume you have 6 to 7 years for the older IS generation as well.

Honestly i don't know.

Thanks Guys
I am thinking of picking up one of these IS models since they have really come down in price. I had the non IS and really do miss the focal lenght. Kinda wanted to use as a dual purpose lens. I enjoy shooting sports and wildlife
300 2.8 for sports then add the 1.4 and 2x for wildlife.
Just didnt want to end up with an expensive door stop in a few years.

Then the new Sigma looks interesting also.

stargazer77517 wrote in post #15868848
Thanks Guys
I am thinking of picking up one of these IS models since they have really come down in price. I had the non IS and really do miss the focal lenght. Kinda wanted to use as a dual purpose lens. I enjoy shooting sports and wildlife
300 2.8 for sports then add the 1.4 and 2x for wildlife.
Just didnt want to end up with an expensive door stop in a few years.

Then the new Sigma looks interesting also.

Really come down in price is realative I guess. $4000 for what is often a 10 year old lens with wear still seems high to me. I guess the price of the version II is keeping the version I prices higher on the used market. For some reason, the year of the lens manufacture doesn't seem to factor in, unlike a car. I've often wondered about parts and support also on a used Ver. I.

Don't worry about it. The lens won't need service. Buy one if you can find it. The reason the price is so high is that is is a great lens and the new version is not that much better, but $3000.more.

Tapeman wrote in post #15869067
Don't worry about it. The lens won't need service. Buy one if you can find it. The reason the price is so high is that is is a great lens and the new version is not that much better, but $3000.more.

I've never read a bad review or seen anything negative said about the Canon 2.8 series except the price. They seem to be built like tanks. Not sure how many of the Ver II they have sold at those prices.

Also, although Canon will refuse to sell you parts directly intended for an out-of-service lens many of the parts are more or less compatible between lenses. If you get the service manuals you can often estimate which in-service lens uses the same stupid piece of plastic.

I really wish Canon would stop destroying their stock of parts...

Tapeman wrote in post #15869067
Don't worry about it. The lens won't need service. Buy one if you can find it. The reason the price is so high is that is is a great lens and the new version is not that much better, but $3000.more.

Hmmm, mine is on it's way to Canon for work soon (AF is hunting badly).

Still, even if Canon discontinues working on a lens, there are often third party or independent repair sources.

stargazer77517 wrote in post #15868848
I am thinking of picking up one of these IS models since they have really come down in price.

Haha, that is funny how things are relative. Most of them are selling (or at least asking) used now for more than they were new, just because the replacement version is so much more money.

Indeed, I recall pricing a new one from B&H @ about $3,600.00 or $3,800.00

CyberDyneSystems wrote in post #15869783
Indeed, I recall pricing a new one from B&H @ about $3,600.00 or $3,800.00

When I bought mine used one 3-4 years ago, the new price was $4299 and used price hasn't dropped much since MKII was out either. This is one of the lens that holds its value really well, similar to the 200 f1.8.

For some reason, I thought they were 5000 or so. Guess not. Seeing some on the forums for 3700 thinking they had come down. Oh well, they are one of Canons best.

Yep, I bought mine from B&H new at the end of 2008 for $3700. I thought that was a lot! Looks like I could sell for at least what I paid. Wonder how long this trend will continue? Probably no way for me to justify getting a new one at prices now, although it is still pretty much a perfect lens regardless of improvements they have made in the new one.