2nd hand Canon glass - what should I watch for

Kaladon · 28 Jun 2016 at 21:42

Hey,

So i got the 1200D with the 18-55 kit lens, and while im getting on OK with it I would like to look into a few specific things. Mostly all I do is outdoor nature\scenic while im out walking, but I would also like to get something for doing better shots of rigs as well as painted miniatures.

Someone I know is offering the following for £240

50mm EF 1.8 STM
55-250mm EF-S 4-5.6 IS SEF-S TM
24mm EF-S 2.8

Retail wise I know thats about £100 less than I would get it, but ive read horror stories about dodgy 2nd hand kit, so i was wondering how anyone else tests kit before they buy?

a1ex2001 · 29 Jun 2016 at 12:44

I've bought loads of second hand lenses and touch wood never had an issue Those lenses are all pretty modern so won't be old so all I would do is a visual inspection then stick it on the Camera and ensure it focuses quickly and without undue noise from end to end then I'd ensure the aperture steps up and down nice and snappily and finally I'd take a couple of pics wide open and zoom in on the LCD just to check they aren't silly soft.

a nice set of lenses that.

Kaladon · 30 Jun 2016 at 20:47

cool. Ill be seeing this person late next week so i think ill take the risk

D.P. · 1 Jul 2016 at 18:24

Have a good look at the rear element for scratches - those mater. The front element is not very important but worth checking. Check the mount for cracks or heavy wear.
Test the lens and listen for any grinding or whirring noises when focusing or using IS. take plenty of test photos against different conditions. look for de-centering, flare issues, loss of contrast, and even sharpness.

Open the aperture right up (not sure how easy this is on canon glass) and hold it up against a window. Look for any black specs inside, this is dust or fungus and very hard to get repaired.