24-105L series IS lens

[Quentin]

Contemplating buying this lens for a forthcoming trip to Australia. (Camera is 5D Mk.2 FF) Some reviews and comments read indicate that this lens has some 'problems', e.g. dust intrusion, 'soft' around the edges, etc. Are these and others really an issue, or is it just because it is a 'popular' L series lens, with probably more in use than other ranges?
Retail prices vary widely, with many 'whitebox' sales advertised as well. I don't have a problem with whitebox, but do prefer Canon UK supplied outlets. Has anyone experience of 'procamerashop' on the Internet? Are there stocks 'grey' or UK sourced?
Thanks in anticipation.

Quentin

[AndyA]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

My wife bought mine (birthday gift) from Procamerashop in Carlilse and it arrived in a Canon retail box. I'm assuming that it's an import, but I haven't actually checked.

When the package first arrived with Jill, she noticed that the Canon box was slightly damaged, being concerned that the lens may also be damaged, she took pics of the box and contacted Procamerashop. They checked the pics and told her to return the lens and sent a replacement. Jill wouldn't hesitate to use them again.

I haven't noticed any problems with dust, or softness at the edges, but I have seen CA under certain condition, i.e along the edges of tree branches against bright skies. For me the lens seems sharper around f/8 with landscapes.

[briansquibb]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

On a ff there are 3 'standard' lens which I would recommend:

17-40/f4
24-105/f4
70-300L

The most useful for standard use is is the 24-105 - an excellent lens

[S_J_P]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I wouldn't hesitate to endorse the 24-105, it's a fabulous lens at a (relatively) bargain price. I've not read of any edge softness, but I know they're prone to PCB connector faults after extensive use.

As for grey-importing, that's down to you. I've bought imports, and I've bought UK stock. The question you need to ask yourself is are you willing to embrace the cumbersome warranty repair process if your new lens fails? Is the saving worthwhile? Considering that the reliability of Canon equipment is very good, and savings can be huge, then it's probably worthwhile so long as your income isn't dependant on the equipment and you can afford to be without it for an extended period.

[Nathaniel]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I endorse Brian and SJP 150%.

[Neilly]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I would highly recommend the 24-105mm lens - mines over 3 years old and has taken plenty of pictures. It's my standard walkabout lens. Still as clean inside as the day it was first used and takes a cracking picture.

TTFN,
Neil

[Quentin]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

Thanks guys for all these positive remarks and recommendations, it is appreciated! I should perhaps have said that I already have a 24-70 2.8 L, but want something with a bigger range and LESS WEIGHT for lugging around the world!
I am particularly pleased that I have received no negative comments - at least so far!
Quentin

[Neilly]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I would recommend the new 70-300mm L lens in that case. That would cover you for most eventualities and is a reasonable price, too. That's going to be my next purchase, in the not to distant future.

TTFN,
Neil

[collywobbles]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

The 24-105mm f/4.0 is my most used lens. I have used "Procamerashop" no problems; you just save money!

[Quentin]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I would recommend the new 70-300mm L lens in that case. That would cover you for most eventualities and is a reasonable price, too. That's going to be my next purchase, in the not to distant future.

TTFN,
Neil

Thanks for that Neil, but the intention is NOT to take the 24-70 with me on this trip, thus the 70-300 would be too long (and heavy) on its own! I already have a 70-300IS (non L), and that wont be going on the trip either.
Quentin

[Ems]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I’ve had my 24-105 for several years. The lens has been back to Canon once for repair when I kept getting an Error 01. The diaphragm assembly had to be replaced. If you Google 24-105L diaphragm you’ll find quite a few references. It’s still an excellent walkabout lens to have on your camera and Canon may have sorted out any problem on newer lenses by now.

[colin C]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I recall two problems with the very early ones. The diaphragm assembly and a problem with the black internal coating that resulted in a little fogging/flare under certain conditions. These were generally all sorted very quickly, very few exhibited any issues and later models don't have any inherent problems that I am aware of.

[Hereford_EOS]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I have used the 24-105mm L lens in conjunction with a 5D2 and it was a perfect marriage.
A great walkabout lens on a FF camera.

[crunch]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

I've just ordered this lens as my first piece of 'L' glass from simply electronics £514.95.

[jonesgj]

Re: 24-105L series IS lens

Another 24-105 supporter here.