first generation 70-200 2.8L non IS?

[Terry Zorich]

I have one (70-200/2.8L, non-IS) and it's probably the best lens I own. Very sharp; not too heavy; versatile. I use it for portraits, weddings, motorsports, team sports - you name it. I bought it in 2002, and I wouldn't consider selling it now, unless I could trade for an IS version for a small amount more.

[Larry Placido]

I've owned the original 70-200 f2.8L AND the 400 f2.8L.... Both of which I've owned since the early 90's. I've never had any problems (knock wood) with the 70-200... It's one of the most versatile and durable lens there is.... It's never been into Canon for anything other than a quick clean and check.

My 400 is the same way... The only time it's been opened up by Canon is when the AF motor screws were loosening up and I couldn't AF or manual focus. The tech told me that he was very surprised to find out that it never came into Canon for anything... I think that I've been pretty fortunate that I never had any problems with it. I shoot sports from rodeo to football in all types of weather...

Both non IS lenses are fine pieces of gear IMHO...

[David_Buzzard]

Don't forget, that unless you trash it, you'll be able to sell it for $600.00 if you want to trade up to an IS lens. Really, you can't loose.

David Buzzard's Technical Blog