Most of us have likely seen the rare occurrence of the 200-800 snapping in half that seemed to take over the internet for a bit.
I haven't heard much about it since then. I was curious if it's still happening, and I recently saw a post in which someone mentioned Canon had beefed up the "weak" point.
Has anyone heard anything about this? I'll likely reach out to Canon tomorrow, but figured someone here might know something.
tomba8tomba wrote:
I suppose that’s also the answer to your question.
---------------------------------------------
tomba8tomba wrote:
I suppose that’s also the answer to your question. Mine is still in heavy use after two years.
No, not really. As I stated, it was a rare occurrence from the start - but that doesn't address my question. I was hoping that someone might have some insight regarding Canon reinforcing the 200-800, or if that was just something someone made up.
Mar 22, 2026 at 10:37 AM
Steve Spencer Offline • • • • • • • Upload & Sell: On
No, not really. As I stated, it was a rare occurrence from the start - but that doesn't address my question. I was hoping that someone might have some insight regarding Canon reinforcing the 200-800, or if that was just something someone made up.
I asked Google AI:
Did Canon reinforce the RF 200-800 f/6.3-9 IS USM lens?
It replied:
"Canon has not officially released a "reinforced" or updated version of the Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens since its initial launch." and then went on to list some of the specs from the lens.
Of course AI doesn't always get it right, but it can often be better at searching for things than I am. I would think if Canon did update the lens they have kept it pretty quiet, which I suppose isn't impossible but I don't think is likely.
I read a fb post on the 17th about their 200-800 breaking in the same spot as others. They mentioned that the spoke with Canon and Canon told them they were reinforcing that area.
This video shows the issue, which I thought was interesting. The two parts are held together by a small flange of plastic.
