Posted by Scott Leslie on December 17, 2011 at 11:27 PM
I am interested in this lens for several reasons. It would fit my needs perfectly, however, I have read contradicting reviews on the lens. Can anybody who had experience with this lens please let me know how they've found it for sharpness and contrast in particular, and overall performance and durability in general. I am looking at a used one one that is a good price and from 2009 (code UX). Unfortunately, I can't try the lens (he's about 1500 miles away) and can't find one to rent here in eastern Canada. Any information would be very helpful. Thanks!
Scott
Posted by Wick Smith on December 18, 2011 at 2:46 PM
Scott,
I rented one from LensRentals.com this past Sept. for wildlife in Yellowstone. I found the lens to be super-sharp for my needs. I do not have the other versions of long prime lenses to compare to, but given the price & weight differences, I'd opt for the 400 DO if I was shopping for a 400mm lens. It is light enough that you can hand hold it for short periods of time if in good light. I would also rely on LensRental's comments on it - they go through a lot of lenses - http://www.lensrentals.com/rent/canon/lenses/supertelephoto/canon-400mm-f4l-do-is. I have no idea about durability of this lens, but LensRentals' equipment surely gets thrashed more than one that you might own outright. Good luck with it!
Wick
Discussion
1 repliesScott
I rented one from LensRentals.com this past Sept. for wildlife in Yellowstone. I found the lens to be super-sharp for my needs. I do not have the other versions of long prime lenses to compare to, but given the price & weight differences, I'd opt for the 400 DO if I was shopping for a 400mm lens. It is light enough that you can hand hold it for short periods of time if in good light. I would also rely on LensRental's comments on it - they go through a lot of lenses -
http://www.lensrentals.com/rent/canon/lenses/supertelephoto/canon-400mm-f4l-do-is. I have no idea about durability of this lens, but LensRentals' equipment surely gets thrashed more than one that you might own outright. Good luck with it!
Wick