This has got to be one of the most superb 2x-7x lenses manufactured. I bought this (used) after saving up enough money, and upgraded from my 28-105. When I got back my first batch of Velvia, I was amazed at the difference between the two.
Even wide open, the lens is very sharp. I love the f/2.8 aperture, which allows me to shoot hand-held in low light. The AF simply rips, and is almost instantaneous on my EOS-3. I frankly can't tell any difference between the slides I've shot with this lens and those with my 50/1.8 and 24/2.8 primes.
Distortion is extremely well controlled for a zoom, specially compared to some of the Tokina and Sigma f/2.8 zooms I've used in this range.
I almost purchased a Tokina zoom in this range but ran into focusing problems with my Elan-7e. The tokina would consistently focus a little too close. In addition, both the Tokina and Sigma f/2.8's I tried were soft at f/2.8-f/4. If I'm gonna shoot at f/5.6 or smaller I may as well stick to my old 28-105 zoom.
However, it's not easy to carry along when I want to travel light. It's big and heavy, and needs a big bag to carry. However it's much better than the Nikkor offering which is both bigger and heavier than this lens.
I bought this lens together with the EOS 3, 70-200/2.8L and 550EX. Very well balanced on EOS 3. Magnificant color rendition, great sharpness and contrast even wide open. I very often shoot at 2.8-4.0 and didn't experience any flare. Very little distortion ! I shot wedding pictures using this lens and the 70-200/2.8L and they were very happy with the pictures. Eventually, my friend got interested in photography and bought this lens and EOS 3 and 70-200/4L.
FYI, I was a Nikon user and I converted to Canon AF gears because of these sharp L zoom lens. In fact, the 28-70/2.8L is the sharpest zoom in this range, rated by photodo.com. Will never sell it!
Strengths:
Solid built, sharp, great color rendition, convenient. 3 primes in one - 28/35/50mm. Canon, keeps up with great optics.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy and big size. No doubtly expensive but worth every penny.
Similar Products Used:
Canon 70-200/2.8L, Nikon 180/2.8ED, 105/2.5 AIS, 24/2.8AIS and 50/1.8AIS.
Just great value, handles perfect, delivers quality (sharpness, color...) time and time again, Hood is perfect for all focal settings.
It's heavy, but good balnce on EOS 3,1V, etc., specially with the booster.
Strengths:
Optics, mechanics, Distortion is the best I've seen on a zoom.
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