I am planning on buying a Canon 400mm 5.6l lens next year and I was wondering if it is a good idea to buy expensive telephotos on ebay. I could save about $300-$400, but I don't want to risk getting a bad lens because I need it to last me many years. I have bought some equiment from non-reputable sources and have been dubious of the quality. Should I just play it safe and buy a new one, or risk it for the lower price. If anyone has stories (good or bad) about buying on ebay, please share.

I suggest seeing if you can pick up one on buy and sell here. You can also post a WTB on that forum.

I've never heard of a bad copy of the 400 f5.6L
If the guy's got good feedback and the condition/price is right....go for it.
I've picked up a couple for $800 and another for $850 over the years.

Question...why is this posted in the Alternative Gear Forum

+2

This is posted to this forum because it is the Alternative Gear & LENSES forum.

Let a Brazilian fellow help you in English
The word 'Alternative' relates to both the words 'Gear' and 'Lenses'.

I thougth it was alternative as in alternative to CANON lenses on canon bodies, hence Trenchmonkey's question.

+2? now perhaps some math lessons are in order

There's a Canon Gear and a Nikon Gear forums here.
One could reasonably think Alt = not Canon and not Nikon.
Please.

Ok I'm sorry, I will now post this to the other gear forumn.

Well O.K., you guys took care of that wandering photog...... Lets find some kittens to pummel!

pauljas wrote:
+2? now perhaps some math lessons are in order

I agree with Will's statement and with his question: 1 + 1 = 2.

I got it, Jim!! I hate having to explain a reply.

dcmiller wrote:
Well O.K., you guys took care of that wandering photog...... Lets find some kittens to pummel!

ROFL!