Scratches On 500mm Front Lens Element

I went to clean my new Canon EF 500mm for the first time this morning and noticed a couple of small scratches in the front element. The lens was never cleaned and always used with the hood supplied. I don't believe I could have inflicted this. I hope Canon will repair it under warranty? Has anyone had this happen and any recommendations on how to prevent this. I don't think it will effect image quality but it will take its psychological toll. LOL


Any idea or experiences?

Mike

Been there! Don't know how I scratched mine as well but I had a freekin heart attack when I found it. I was told will have no effect on images but it still hurts me so Also I was informed that those lenses are (at least my 300) coated with a layer of glass? Not sure but, I feel your pain

Can't help you with the solution but my suggestion is purchasing a UV filter for then lens. They are a little pricey, but way better to scratch that then your actual lens

- Luke

There is no UV filter to fit this lens.

I believe the super telephotos have a plain glass front element to protect the more expensive actual lens elements. This lets you replace the front element cheaper than it would be otherwise. (I think I've seen actual cost around a couple hundred dollars - which is probably what a filter that big would cost anyway.)

I stand corrected!

I was looking for one and thats how I found out. "I Hate This Weather"

I was looking for one and thats how I found out. "I Hate This Weather"

My 500 managed to get a small ding also. More than a slight scrathc, sadly. Hasn't made a difference at all in images, but sure hurts psychologically, as you said - and also will hurt when it's time to sell it.
Sandy r

I went back to the lens today and was happy to discover under my sensor scope that I had a bit of lint I didn't remove at first!

Good news is that it takes a lot to effect the lens. Here's a example

http://bit.ly/761w