A 500 IS has taken a knock on the rubber (where lens hood sits) and has indented it!!!
Can or is this part easily and inexpensively replaceable.
Although the indent is easily visible (yet not visible with hood attached) there is no effect on image quality - just aesthetically it doesn't look pleasing to the eye!!!
No, not the rubber grips on the focus ring - it's the hard rubber that surrounds the glass at the head of the lens. It's also prevelant on the 400 & 600 primes among others.
It basically protects the glass from side or initial impacts etc. As I said, you cannot see this rubber when the lens hood is attached - only when the lens hood is off. The rubber is about 1/2 an inch wide and surrounds the lens head!!!
Check the Reviews section for Canon primes (300, 400, 500, 600 & 800mm) -you'd be blind Freddy not to see it!!! hehe
I think you've actually done structural damage to the lens. The end of the lens is metal with a rubber sleeve that fits over the metal end. The rubber sleeve is only about .5mm thick. You can take the sleeve off and try to straighten it or just leave it alone.
I'd be more concerned about the integrity of glass elements as well as IQ of that lens than about a minor barrel rim (?) dent in itself. The issue: how did that dent happen ? Was the lens dropped or snagged onto something ?
Either way, should you decide to pursue the lens purchase, it may be a good idea to visually inspect the inside of the lens very carefully using a strong light source. Also check the images obtained with the lens on an FF camera if possible. Look for peripheral asymmetries in IQ. Listen to the AF drive (AF and MF). Examine the lens mount for any signs of deformation.
Not my lens but it's one I contemplate purchasing.
Is it possible to bend that metal back into position or somehow straighten it again Could this be done by a Canon technician of sorts
I'd say its possible but to get it back to like new condition might be difficult. It all depends on how bad the dent is and how much of a dent you can live with if you cant get it all out
It's a pity about the bump - it's only an April 08 model for an amazing price!!! I'd rather spend the extra cash and get a better quality lens without the dents and bruises!!!
Could this be done by a Canon technician of sorts