my Ef 75-300 f5.6 - a waste of time?

I've been reading a few things on here about this lens being soft etc...

I must admit, it doesn't look as sharp as a lot of other peoples photos with other lenses, but I've had it for years and guess I'm used to it (used to have it on a 35mm EOS - now using a 20D)

Would I get a big increase in sharpness if I got a 70-300 instead?

If it really is as crap as people say, what would be a good replacement, if not the above, and before you say 'L", not too expensive please!

thanks in advance

Its not the best lens out there.....but I have seen good results with it from a friend with a rebel XT

Depends what your willing to spend......


Heres a couple aviation shots with the 75-300 non USM, non IS

air ambulance

air jazz

air ambulance 2

air jazz 2

The above links have a lot of POP UP