I have a nearly brand new 300 f2.8 IS I bought from BH in early '07. The glass is perfect! I really don't want to sell this, but as my surf photography progresses and I continue to use a TC I am realizing I need longer glass.
I would like to trade my 300 f2.8 IS with case and original cardboard box + some cash (we'll have to talk about that part) for a like new/mint condition Canon 500 f4 IS.
Yeah, but not in my area - 500 is perfect. 600 is nice, but overkill. I'll also be using it for a variety of other professional and collegiate level sports.
At this point I have a list of at least 20 people who want to buy my 300 f2.8 IS outright . I am not willing to do this until I find a 500 f4 IS to replace it. I just can't live with out the long glass for my assignments.
Here's the deal: If you want to buy my 300, please help me find a like new or new 500. If you are the one who helps me find the lens I am looking for you get first dibs on the 300 . I've got ads on almost every board out there and have not had any luck yet.
For those wondering, my lens is "UU" and looks 99% new and comes with everything as if you'd bought it new.
He is also not too far from where you are. I was looking for a 500, but ended up buying another one. This one is a great deal given the recent upward revision of the prices.
Pete/Vivek - Yes I saw that one. But it's date code is a bit old for my liking. It's almost 10 years old - not to knock the lens and mine is one year old. Vast difference.
Bobby - No worries it was nice to meet you. You're a lucky man to be able to have both the 500 and 300 - very nice wife.
I haven't completely made up my mind, but I've got a mint 500 f4 that I might trade you. I'm up in SF Bay Area.
I picked it up about 6 months ago from original owner (who purchased from B&H). Beautiful condition and sharp. I think its UT date code, but I'll double check tonight. I have all the original accessories (even the cardboard box - which I'm using to store all my other boxes in).
I find its just big enough where I'm not using it as much as I had hoped (and I'm just a hobbyist), so I'm starting to think maybe the 300 + extenders may suit me better. But I'm torn - its sweet! I've also picked up a Kinesis rig to hike with it.
. I am not willing to do this until I find a 500 f4 IS to replace it. I just can't live with out the long glass for my assignments.