Where to buy lens?

[Fujito]

I'm contemplating putting off buying modifications for my car next month, and instead investing in my photography gear--something that I've put off for a long time.

I currently have a Canon 50D with a 28-135mm. I'm interested in picking up a Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS.

I see prices that range from $1,200-$1,500 for this lens, new. Why is there a $300 difference? Should I be concerned about the lower price one? I'm looking on Amazon btw... if you guys know of a better place to buy then let me know.

[djb5118]

all depends on who is selling the lens. amazon also sells some used stuff and deals with various vendors to source their product. just be sure that the lens is from the US and not a grey market item, which could impact your warranty.

if you want used, there are a few sites around that deal with used stuff bhphoto.com, keh.com, etc. but usually amazon is pretty good with their pricing

[grimm]

I buy from B&H photo or adorama. You can also try some local camera stores, they might have some used equipment in stock.

[Fujito]

So are you guys suggesting getting a used one?

[djb5118]

Originally Posted by Fujito

So are you guys suggesting getting a used one?

used can be a great alternative to paying the high prices for new gear. most people who are selling used gear haven't abused it, and I have found photogs to be pretty up-front about the condition stuff is in.

it's really up to you though, some people enjoy the satisfaction of having brand new gear but you have to be able to justify the price difference

[97TurboDSM]

any vendor selling a 70-200 f2.8L IS for less than $1600 NEW is going to be a scam. I've been buying used lenses for a while now and have not had a single problem with any of them. I would definitely suggest used. Also look into the non-IS version, i had it and never once wished i had IS.

[djb5118]

Originally Posted by 97TurboDSM

any vendor selling a 70-200 f2.8L IS for less than $1600 NEW is going to be a scam. I've been buying used lenses for a while now and have not had a single problem with any of them. I would definitely suggest used. Also look into the non-IS version, i had it and never once wished i had IS.

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-70-200mm...5857843&sr=8-1

amazon is a scam?

I say you get the refurb for $1,000,000,000.00

[grimm]

I would also suggest looking into the non-IS. it all depends on what you will be shooting with it, but the 2.8 is pretty fast. I have never wished i had the IS either. it could be the difference between getting a new NON-IS vs a used IS?

[97TurboDSM]

Originally Posted by djb5118

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-70-200mm...5857843&sr=8-1

amazon is a scam?

I say you get the refurb for $1,000,000,000.00

you serious with that? $1600 is a nice even number i rounded up to. Does it make you happier if i say anything less than $1550 new?

[4g64FTL]

I also stick to BH Photo and Adorama. Plus with Adorama get ground shipping and it USUALLY comes overnight since the plant is really close. Amazon isnt a scam but you need to watch out for things or the grey market which is more common with Nikon then Canon. Also check Criagslist as well.

[Fujito]

What about this?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...8L_IS_USM.html

It comes with a lens hood. Good price?

[YO CAMRY]

Originally Posted by djb5118

I say you get the refurb for $1,000,000,000.00

What the hell?

[Big_Jim]

I bought a couple of my lens' used. I'd much rather save the money by buying used and well cared for equipment than paying premium for brand new.

[grimm]

i think this would be a better deal all in all
70-200 f2.8L IS w/Wrty

[Fujito]

And what is the gray market?

[grimm]

Originally Posted by Fujito

And what is the gray market?

copied from the digital picture

When shopping for your Canon lenses, you will likely run into 2 versions of the same lens. One will be the "USA" model and the other will be denoted as "Gray/Grey Market", "Imported" or "Direct Import".

What is the difference?

The "USA" Canon lenses are imported to the US by Canon USA. "USA" Canon lens warranties are supported by any Canon service facility worldwide. They are also eligible for Canon lens rebates - both instant rebates and mail-in rebates.

The "Gray/Grey Market", "Imported" or "Direct Import" Canon lenses are directly imported by the retailer or their import agent. They are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty. At least they "say" they are not covered. Word on the street is that Canon covers gray market lenses under their standard warranty if an invoice from an authorized dealer can be produced. This mirrors my experience as well.

Most reputable retailers will provide their own same-as-manufacturer's warranty on "Gray/Grey Market", "Imported" or "Direct Import" Canon lenses. Instead of sending the lens to Canon, you send it to the retailer.

What physical difference is there between USA and Gray Market Canon Lenses?

Usually none - in fact, I have yet to find a difference. These Canon lenses are made in same factory using the same parts and are identical in the finished product form. Reputable retailers would make any differences clear before you bought the lens. Scam retailers will give you lines such as "You have ordered the plastic mount gray market version of this lens". If you hear that line or any similar upsell tactic, consider a red warning flag raised.

The attractive difference in a Gray Market Canon lens is price. The imported version is nearly always cheaper - sometimes even cheaper than with the rebates offered on the USA versions.

So which should you buy? I'll let that decision up to you, but will say that I have far more than one copy of the "Gray/Grey Market", "Imported" or "Direct Import" Canon lenses.

[4g64FTL]

Adorama and BH will mark if it is GRAY market. Which in short means it will come with a warranty but the manufacturer (Nikon/Canon) will NOT work on it or repair it

[97TurboDSM]

dont waste your money on a lens coat/hoodie.

[Fujito]

Originally Posted by grimm

i think this would be a better deal all in all
70-200 f2.8L IS w/Wrty

I'd rather just pay $200 more and get a new one.

And thanks for explaining what the gray market is. I'll look out for that.

[Fujito]

Originally Posted by 97TurboDSM

dont waste your money on a lens coat/hoodie.

Yeah, that seems like a waste. I do want the lens hood, but I'll pick that up separately.