What is the lifespan of an EF 50mm f/1.4 USM?

RogerZoul wrote:

Steve Balcombe wrote:

Digital Imaging Technician wrote:

I have a bunch of photographer friends that shoots Canon. All of those that bought the 50mm f/1.4 has had the same problem: the AF breaks down within a couple of years. Were they just unlucky or does this lens have some serious quality issues? Searching the web doesn't make me more sure about buying it. Should this lens be seen as a consumable?

I don't have one myself but this is a well-known issue. The 50/1.4 has a unique AF mechanism not used on any other lens - micro USM with a clutch to provide full-time manual focus so it masquerades as Ring USM but it's actually inferior to the real thing. It seems to be prone to mechanical damage if there is pressure on the extending inner barrel.

The solution I often see suggested is to keep a lens hood attached to protect the inner barrel from pressure, and always remember to retract the barrel before putting in a bag.

I wonder if keeping the lens hood attached is always a wise thing to do. Lenses do come with hoods for some reasons...I've always assumed the reasons were 1) to block sunlight, and 2) to protect the front element. Maybe the list is longer...

I keep my hoods on all my lenses that have them...and if they don't come with one, I usually buy a cheapo off amazon.

I don't think that's a bad idea but the only thing would be the amount of space the lens would take up with the hood attached when storing it at home. Of course if you have the space for it, by all means.

I wonder if someone has actually had the EF 50mm f/1.4 for, say, over 7 years and still has a working copy.

I'm sure there are many.

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