Much better than I anticipated

shleed wrote:

I got my 17-40mm recently 2nd hand from an online seller for around €470 - a decent price considering it's usually €700-800 in Ireland. I got it to replace my 10-22mm, which I recently sold along with my 7D, and to further my IR photography with my 6D. I originally was going to get the 16-35mm f4L IS, but there was not enough information on it's IR performance, and previous 16-35mm lenses are known to be particularly bad for IR.

When it arrived it was in immaculate condition, and apart from the 3rd party lens cap it looked brand new. No scratches or scuffs. Nothing. It's date code shows it was made in 2005 and the seller claimed it was used, so I honestly was expecting to see at least some wear and tear. There wasn't even the usual discolouration on the rubber!

I anticipated the 17-40mm to not be the sharpest L lens out there according to reviews and tests, but I have been impressed with mine. Results are really sharp wide open on all focal lengths, and even the corners are not bad which is unusual. My previous 10-22mm was much worse in comparison. Perhaps I just managed to get a good copy.

IR performance is the same - I don't get hotspots and is sharp throughout. I also like that it includes an IR indicator on the focus distance screen, which allows me to adjust it without guessing or trial and error.

The only criticism I'd give is that is has obvious barrel distortion at 17mm, much more so compared to my 10-22mm. Not a huge issue though since it's easily fixed in lightroom.
Overall, thoroughly enjoying this lens!

It gets a mediocre press that it doesn't deserve