Canon 300L vs. 70-300l

I am debating between these two lenses and I thought that I would get some opinions. The use will be wildlife photography from a kayak. I am leaning towards the prime right now and here are my pro/cons lists. Any insight would be appreciated.

300
Pro:
F4 aperture at 300mm
Built in lens hood
Comes with tripod collar

Con:
Older IS system
Not as versatile due to lack of zoom

70-300
Pro:
New IS system
Versatility of the zoom
More compact and lighter
New lens coatings

Con:
More expensive
No tripod collar included
Variable aperture and f5.6 at 300mm

40Driggs wrote in post #13027843
I am debating between these two lenses and I thought that I would get some opinions. The use will be wildlife photography from a kayak. I am leaning towards the prime right now and here are my pro/cons lists. Any insight would be appreciated.

300
Pro:
F4 aperture at 300mm
Built in lens hood
Comes with tripod collar

Con:
Older IS system
Not as versatile due to lack of zoom

70-300
Pro:
New IS system
Versatility of the zoom
More compact and lighter
New lens coatings

Con:
More expensive
No tripod collar included
Variable aperture and f5.6 at 300mm

Considering you're going to be in a kayak, I'd say the 70-300 for two reasons: 1) it's weather sealed and 2) you can't foot zoom in a kayak.

Having said that, I just sold my 300 f/4IS after owning it for 4 years. It is a fantastic lens that takes a TC extremely well. You won't be disappointed either way (but I'd have greater piece of mind with a weather sealed lens in case of splashes and the like ).

Well the 70-300 is weather sealed but the OPs body (40D) isn't, so not sure it's really worth considering.

From a Kayak I'd want a zoom. Personally I'd be a bit concerned using a lens as expensive as the 70-300L. Tamron 70-300 VC might be worth consideration.

edit: I've used a 70-300 IS (non-L) from a Kayak. Are you using it on fresh water? Is the water calm or will you be moving around a bit?

Have you ever considered the Canon 100-400? I use it with my 7D on my Waterskate Kayak.

elfieh

The versatility of a 70-300L seems to be the appeal to many users. The variable aperture lens wouldn't bother me if I owned it because it would be an outdoor ample daylight walkabout lens for me. I'd stick with my 70-200 for portrait work.

The 100-400L is long overdue for a mk2 version. The 70-300L is the inbetween of the 70-200 and 100-400L telezooms.

I own a 300/2.8L non-is and I own the 70-300L for two months now.
And I must admit that I am thinking about selling the 300.

Why?
Its too bulky and heavy. Therefore most of the time I leave it @home.
Ok of course a 300/4 is much smaller and lighter but anyway I would and I do prefer the 70-300L.

The IQ is outstanding. Sharp already open.
It is short (14cm) in your bag.
Its weathersealed.

If I were you I would take the zoom instead of the prime. In a kayak you are much more flexible. Because of the new IS you do not need a tripod/mount.

P.S.: the difference in DOF at f4 (21,6mm) and f5.6 (30,2mm) at 300mm (focus distance 3m) is only 10mm...
P.S.S.: attached is 300mm f5.6 1/250

HOSTED PHOTO
please log in to view hosted photos in full size.

The reviews seem to all agree that the bokeh on the new 70-300 is very pleasing.

I was at a store last night and purchased a 24Lmk2 but I'll admit I was extremely close in pulling the trigger on a 70-300L. Summers coming to an end and I want more fast glass for the turn of the weather. In the spring I may pick one up for outdoor family events.

phreeky wrote in post #13028027
Well the 70-300 is weather sealed but the OPs body (40D) isn't, so not sure it's really worth considering.

From a Kayak I'd want a zoom. Personally I'd be a bit concerned using a lens as expensive as the 70-300L. Tamron 70-300 VC might be worth consideration.

edit: I've used a 70-300 IS (non-L) from a Kayak. Are you using it on fresh water? Is the water calm or will you be moving around a bit?

I will be using the lens on flat water mostly and some class ii and below rivers. I am used to taking my equipment out on the water and am insured so it's not a major issue.

elfieh wrote in post #13028156
Have you ever considered the Canon 100-400? I use it with my 7D on my Waterskate Kayak.

elfieh

I have but I am leaning towards the 300 prime and 70-300 because I feel they have an iq edge.

I'd probably go with the 70-300mm just for the versatility of zoom.

Out of curiosity, how do you store/protect your camera + lens on a kayak? I'm a kayaker as well, and have long thought about bringing my 7D+100-400mm for wildlife shots, but haven't figured out a practical way to bring it along.

pitabread wrote in post #13033147
I'd probably go with the 70-300mm just for the versatility of zoom.

Out of curiosity, how do you store/protect your camera + lens on a kayak? I'm a kayaker as well, and have long thought about bringing my 7D+100-400mm for wildlife shots, but haven't figured out a practical way to bring it along.

I use a heavy duty dry bag to store the camera and lens in. I usually keep it simple and bring as little gear as possible on the trip. When I am using the camera, I will set it in front of me in my kayak on top of the dry bag (I have a large cockpit) and I will place a microfiber towel I have over the top of it to absorb moisture. My gear gets a little bit wet at times, but I have never had any issues.

It takes some practice taking the camera out of the dry bag quickly with a long lens on and I've found that I prefer to have it sitting ready as long as I am not in an area where I am worried about the possibility of tipping over.

Well, I decided to go with the 70-300. From what I've read this lens is really solid, so I don't feel like I will be disappointed. I eventually want to get a 400DO to use in the kayak, but that will be in the distant future. Thanks to everyone for their advice.

Good Choice. It is an Excellent lens!