When buying used glass...

KevinKal

Hello all,

I am about to pull the trigger on a new lens, the Canon 17-40L. I have found one that is about a year old online, at a reasonable price. Could anyone please tell me if there are certain things I need to look for when buying used glass? For example, are there certain "models" of a specific lens that are better/worse than others?

Thanks in advance,
Kevin K.

Seymore

As a general rule, I look for the following...

- Look between the elements for any specs, fungus or other problems.
- Got both caps? (protect the glass)
- Filter on the lens? (protect the glass)
- Look for any scratches or problems on the front or rear elements.
- If stopped down all the way, does the aperture work smoothly and snap shut when opened.
- Does the lens zoom or focus ring feel smooth/tight?
- Mount it on your body and take some shots. Make sure it works ok.

Now, if there are problems with any of this... it doesn't mean I'm NOT going to take the lens. Just allows me to judge how much I'm going to pay for it.


I hope others chime in with their thoughts also...

KevinKal

Thanks...
Seymore,

Thank you for the information ...very usefull for my purposes.

Kevin K.