Lens calibration, bad copy.

I'm pretty new on this site, and really enjoy it. Very informative.

I'm curious though, I often read where a member has to send the lens to Canon for recalibration, or that they got a bad copy. How often does this happen? I've been tinkering around with dlsr's and slr's for about ten years. During that period I've probably had a collective total of 10 or 12 lens. I've never had to send one back yet.

Have I been lucky?

No, just average (in a good way I mean!). I have had a lot of electronics/equipment over the years, and I haven't had any major issues with my camera or related equipment.

Just as there are thousands more depressing or sad songs written than happy ones, it is easier to communicate about a problem with a lens etc. (and more of a reason to) than if everything is fine. That's my opinion anyway.

My Canon 85 f/1.8 has an autofocus that couldn't find water in the ocean. Except for some CA it's great when I manually focus it. When I get around to it I'll send it into Canon. Must be bad luck for a lens known for its autofocus.