What does slightly chipped glass produce? (70-200 f/2.8 IS)

I have the chance to buy a 70-200mm f/2.8 IS at a very very steep discount because the front element has a small chip, about the size of a half grain of rice. This lens is way out of my budget ordinarily (I'm just an amateur with gear envy), so should I just go for this? Or will every shot come out obviously messed up? Anyone have sample shots to show?

I think the worst effect will be a slight increase in lens flare, otherwise the lens should be fine. You can do an old photo trick of rubbing a tiny bit of carbon black on the chipped surface to minimize flare.

I would verify, however, that a lens element hasn't been knocked out of alignment since the lens obviously took a beating. The first thing I would do is shoot parallel to a textured wall, wide open in flat light and verify that all four corners are equally sharp/unsharp.

I managed to put a small chip into the front element of my 24-105mm. All it does it make this round flare sometimes.

I "fixed" it by putting a small piece of black tape over the chip. Yes, I have no shame.

Current eBay prices show about 950 to 1050 for the Mark I lens, which you appear to be referring to. Replacing the outer element might cost $400. I'd put the value of the lens at about $600. If you're getting a better deal than that, then I'd have no qualms.

i paid right under $500 to replace front element on 24-70L II.

My_name_is_Ben wrote:

I have the chance to buy a 70-200mm f/2.8 IS at a very very steep discount because the front element has a small chip, about the size of a half grain of rice. This lens is way out of my budget ordinarily (I'm just an amateur with gear envy), so should I just go for this? Or will every shot come out obviously messed up? Anyone have sample shots to show?

As others have pointed out, the only optical issue from a small chip will be a small increase in flare, and a possible corresponding decrease in contrast.

If you take a black Sharpie and fill in the crack, that will solve your flare and contrast problem.  Once filled in, the chip should not cause a visible difference in the final image.