300 f/2.8 non IS

I'm ready to buy a 300 2.8. Been looking at non IS copies of this lens, since IS for the most part is an answer to a question that I pretty much did not ask. I'm not trying to turn this into a discussion of IS vs non IS, but what I am asking is a couple of things:

1. does canon usa still service the older non IS model ?

2. does anybody have experience with both versions of this lens, and if so would you care to comment on any differences regarding how the AF motors work or any other differences ?

From everything I've read, I'm sure that even the older version is certainly sharp and capable of excellent resolution. The older versions are getting down pretty reasonable in price now.

Comments anyone ?

Over here everyone wants the non IS version as they say it is a sharper lense. I use an IS version and i used a non IS version for about 30 photo's. I didnt notice a difference myself. But im sure some more experienced photographers will have better knollege of the 2 versions

I believe it is no longer serviced by Canon but they are independent shops. Parts will be the issue perhaps. How badly do you need AF? I can suggest a MF 300 if that is an option for you.

Thanks guys for the comment. I too have seen some claim the older one is sharper, but I have also seen that disputed. I'm sure either is sharp enough and then some for me. I have to have AF, no doubt. This will be used mainly for shooting horses and motorcycles in action. Both bare and with a Canon 1.4TC. Thanks again.

If the non IS is sharper than the IS then it must be pretty amazing! Even with TCs the IS version is golden!

Some say To-MAY-To
Some say To-MAH-To

And again, I don't think the issue of sharpness is going to make a difference for me. I think both are more than good enough for me.

My main concern would be servicability and whether there is a functional difference in the AF speed.
Poking around on the sell forums, the current generation one is bringing such dear money, that if I decide to go that way, I'll likely just go ahead and buy one new.

1. No canon does not service this lens...

2. I found the AF on the IS version to be a tad bit better than the non IS however, it is super noticeable? no...

Dave,
Thanks for the insight on the speed of the focus motor. It sounds like it's coming down to a decision of whether I want to roll the dice on whether a used one would continue working, and if not, whether I could get acceptable repair service out of a non-factory approved service tech.

It's an amazing lens .. non IS version is actually less than half price of IS version. I almost never use IS with my other lens (I like sport pitures or at least with moving people).
Of course, I pray not to have any trouble with it.. more over it can't work as manual focus if the electronic is broken..

There was a very nice copy for sale a few days ago. I even thought of buying it and selling my IS version.

You guys are just about sealing the idea in my head to buy one of the older versions. KEH has several right now.

george m w wrote in post #9291965
You guys are just about sealing the idea in my head to buy one of the older versions. KEH has several right now.

George, Scott has one for trade. He seems to be willing to sell.

https://photography-on-the.net …1563&highlight=​300mm+f2.8

Thanks Bobby....I pm'd him.

Thanks fellas for the comments on this lens. I ended up buying one from keh. I'll get out tomorrow and get some shots with it....for now, all I have is a shot OF it ! ( FedEx just dropped it off a couple hours ago ).

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