Archive 2015 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

sasho_p
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

I've been reading all the horrible stories about the 50 1.4, but I need one. I'm buying used so any specific signs that it may be damaged to watch for are welcome. I'm not askimg about general lens stuff.

May 06, 2015 at 02:37 AM

dhphoto
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

The 50mm f1.4 is a fine lens but it has a potentially dodgy focusing system - if you apply pressure to the front of the lens or bash it the focusing can stop working properly.

If you use the lens carefully you will be fine, especially if you use a lens hood to prevent this happening.

So what you need to do is check the AF on the used lens carefully, as well as the usual checks for fungus etc.

It's an underrated lens IMHO

May 06, 2015 at 03:08 AM

ZoneV
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

I would not buy such a lens used when I see a UV / Protection filter or a hood on the filter ring on it (more weight on the mechanics). The hood needs to be on the hood bajonett mount.

May 06, 2015 at 01:13 PM

Gochugogi
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

Maybe wait for the EF 50 1.8 STM. I suspect it will be priced modestly and have a better AF system.

May 06, 2015 at 01:56 PM

sasho_p
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

I suspect the 50 1.8 STM may be worse optically (bokeh, color), but we'll see. I might hold off the purchase though...

May 06, 2015 at 02:21 PM

Nate Haskovec
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

The AF system being fragile is the only complaint I've heard other than being soft when wide open.

I own one and have used it for years with no problems. I even stepped on it once when I sat it down beside me.

My best selling print was taken with this lens and it is a center crop of a single frame in an 8x40 aspect ratio, printed at 8 x 40 inches.

May 08, 2015 at 02:46 PM

roger lund
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Buying used 50 1.4 USM - anything to watch for?

Look for someone who has a good copy but will be made to consider to part with it...

I love mine, but hardly use it, and i'm sure others are in the same boat.

May 09, 2015 at 12:51 PM


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