Canon 500mm f/4L EF IS II USM Lens

This review was created side-by-side with the Canon EF 600mm f/4.0L IS II USM Lens review . These are very similar lenses that arrived at the same time, so you are sure to see many similarities between these reviews.

There's not much to add here that the technical report doesn't make abundantly clear: for the price this lens commands, it provides the ultimate telephoto lens experience, with quality second to none, a feature set with a learning curve, and a suitcase to carry it in.

Canon announced two new super telephoto lenses, which will be available later this year. They are upgrades of the current EF 500/4L IS USM and EF 600/4L IS USM . Both lenses feature lower weight, improved image stabilization and a revised optical design including the addition of a second Fluorite...

There is always a sense of anticipation when you pay a lot of money for something alleged to be outstanding. Will it really be worth it?This lens does not disappoint. I haven't had much time to fully evaluate it, but so far it is living up to my expectations.

Incredibly sharp lens, quick, precise autofocus, and wonderfully balanced when on my camera. Saved for a year and luckily found a used one in perfect shape. Not a versatile lens, but what a gem when circumstances warrant its use.

Have owned this lens for 4 months but have not had a chance to really get that familiar with it yet. Takes nice moon pictures with great detail. One thing noticeable is that it takes quite a while for this much mass of glass/metal to reach ambient shooting temperature so be sure to store the lens at...

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  Good construction and nice case

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  Seems expensive, but good quality is not cheap

Love the clarity & vividness of this lens! Wish I had spring for it years ago. I believe it has improved my photos and taking me to the next level!

I'm so impressed with the spec, handling &amp; results that I wanted to add to my original review.<br /><br />I have now used the lens in very extreme lighting situations &amp; I'm very impressed. it certainly produces the results.

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  Durable, Great Features, Great Picture Quality, Lightweight, Simple Controls

A great addition to my arsenal, as its a big gun.<br />As you'd expect the quality &amp; clarity is superb with<br />great focus in manual &amp; AF modes. Would recommend a<br />gimbal tripod head for ease of use but I have had excellent results hand held.

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  Durable, Great Features, Great Picture Quality, Simple Controls

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  None

Used this lens on a 1DX for an air show and was required to be 625 yards away from the runway. To give you an idea of how the frame was filled: when a 737 aircraft was landing or taking off, I could not see the entire aircraft in the frame when it was a-beam. It brings you that close.