Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM

[bigdave]

Anyone own or use this lens? Looking to use it on my CanonXTI for wildlife. Any info is good info.

[Slider]

It's probably a good amateur lens from 70-200 but it's not sharp enough at 300? I would HIGHLY recommend a Cannon L series Len's!!! It's twice the money but you will not be kicking yourself down the road!!! Good Luck

[grandpawrichard]

It's probably a good amateur lens from 70-200 but it's not sharp enough at 300? I would HIGHLY recommend a Cannon L series Len's!!! It's twice the money but you will not be kicking yourself down the road!!! Good Luck

Amen to that statement! The 70-300 even with IS isn't the best lens that Canon makes.
If you watch the sales on lenses on Ebay you can pick up a Canon 70-200 L series F/4 Professional lens for about $500. I picked mine up Brand new from a dealer for $499. I couldn't be happier with it unless it had the IS.

I can hand hold that lens in a dimly lit audotorium and get some awesome shots. I took it to my middle Grand Daughter's Band Concert the other night and I got some shots like these:













Dick

[bigdave]

Guys,

Thanks for the response. I know a good lens is of upmost inportance so I guess I will save the money and look for a good deal. Delayed gratification and all that.

[DesertBighorn]

Another good "L" entry lens is the 100-400L IS.  I had one of these for about six years.  It is a great all purpose lens, not to big when collapsed and gives good pictures.  I sold mine last year after upgrading to a 300 2.8 (my wife said I couldn't use all of them at the same time).  I am sorry I sold it as it is a great lens that packs better than a big 300, 400 or 500.  Look on Craigslist or www.fredmiranda.com for a used one.  If you buy in to Canon L lenses you can upgrade and if you buy used you can sell for about the same price if you take care of it as they don't lose much value.  A couple of other wildlife lenses that would meet the "entry category" are the 300 f4 or the 400 f5.6.

-Doug

[bigdave]

Thanks for your input. I am always interested to hear what equipment has worked in the field for people. I will add your suggestions to my list.

Dave