I borrowed the 35L for a couple weeks and I wasn't that impressed. One of my most heavily weight criteria when evaluating a lens is sharpness. Although I know there is much, much more to a good lens, and realize that you don't always need razor sharp images, I didn't like the softness of the Canon wide open. As mentioned above, the CA and flaring was pretty bad also.
I was extremely leery on going the Sigma route after spending months exchanging multiple copies of the Sigma 30 when I had my 7D. I swore I'd never give them my business again. Then the reviews started to consistently praise the new Art lens and I took the bait. It turned out to be 99% of what I was looking for in a 35mm lens. I micro-adjusted for a 6ft target and have been shocked at how accurate the focus is during my use. I tend to use it most for low-light reception candids, candid bridal prep, and detail shots at weddings; performs flawlessly. Now, about that remaining 1%...I am not confident using this lens for group shots, landscapes, or as a general purpose walk-around lens. I find that it remains accurate at distances of about 10ft and closer, but beyond that distance things tend to get dicey.
I've been looking for a good deal on a used dock, but it hasn't been a priority. Primarily because I'm dreading the microadjust procedure at 4 distances, but considering how consistent it focuses at the current adjusted range, I have high hopes.
YES!
