Still IQ variation in Canon's 100-400?

[kilianwasmer]

I have read many times that there used to be (or still is?) quite a great variation in IQ (sharpness/softness wide open) from copy to copy of Canon's 100-400mm lens.


Is this still the case with new lenses or has Canon solved this problem?
If so, could this be fixed by sending the lens to Canon for recalibration (as it is usually made with front-/backfocus)?

[Jack Dawe]

From what I've read on another forum, I think this was a problem with older lenses, but it seems that the current models are OK. I got one towards the end of last year and the difference at 400mm between f/5.6 and f/8 isn't all that great. The attached pic is an unprocessed 100% crop converted straight from a RAW file shot wide open - taken through a window. It's not as sharp as the 400 prime would be, but it's plenty good enough for me.

[h14nha]

Hi
Has anyone actually sent their lens off for calibration and if so how expensive was it and were the results worth it ?? Its back to the old argument of the lens quality v the owners skills !!
Ian