2nd hand lens, how to check IS?

When buying a second hand lens with IS, how to check for IS operation, or if it's working properly?

Thanks.

Turn it on, and shoot at a speed 2-3 stops slower than you normally would shoot at handheld.

i.e. if you can shoot your 50/1.8 @ 1/60 handheld, try shooting the 18-55IS @ 50mm 1/8 - 1/15, if IS is working, you should get a steady shot.

Hold your ear up to the lens, usually you'll hear a faint whine of the IS unit when it engages. On Sigma OS units you can hear it in a normal shooting position.

On a long tele just hold it up with out the IS on and do center spot focus so or at least look at the center spot and try and hold it on a subject. Then turn on the is and try again.
With out the IS with the 100-400 I can keep it within a few feet, Turn in on and I can nail the center spot. If it isn't working you should see a lot of movement in the view finder. The listen for grinding or unusually noise coming from the frame.
Fedxpress

I tested my used 17-55 IS by listening very closely to the barrel while pressing the shutter button half-way. You should hear a whirling noise. If the IS is off, there will be no whirling noise. It might be difficult to listen at first so make sure you're in a quiet environment.

if you can get your hands on a camera with live view...it's by far the easiest way...zoom in 10X magnification...that baby steadies right up

Getting a defective Canon lens would be very, very annoying. I've fortunately never had a problem with it.

Marquita Jensen
A Cannon lens super lenses fan.

The only problem with holding it up to your ear and listening is that this just let you hear the motor run. Not is it is working and holding the frame steady like it is suppose to do.
I can see it work on my 70-200, and 100-400.
Fedxpress

Will try all the suggestions.