24-70 2.8L Zoom ring stiffness

[VSUScotty]

Just got my 24-70 2.8L this past week and used it for a wedding this weekend.


I gotta say, this is a great lens and I understand why its so popular. Fast and sharp. Everything an L should be.


The one thing about the lens that bothers me, and I'm curious if it is unique to my lens or if it is normal for this model. The action on the zoom ring is very stiff. It is not a smooth easy motion as I'm used ot with other lenses like the 16-35 2.8L. There is much more resistance in the motion.


Does anyone have any input?

[Keith B]

My 24-70 has a little more resistance than my 16-35. I think it is expected when you consider how much glass you are moving over a further distance. The 24-70 extends about 1 1/4" where the 16-35 has less glass and at the most extends a 1/4" give or take.

[Wes]

Mine has the same thing and I have seen this talked about on several boards and believe it is something that comes along with this lens for the reasons Keith has mentioned.

[Colin]

Use it more [:P]

[VSUScotty]

I'll make sure to take your advice Colin!! []

[cxr]

hi! just want to ask how do you find the lens? does it really produce sharp images? i have a 24-105 and thinking of getting this one orthe70-200 f4 IS.

[peety3]

Use it more [img]/emoticons/emotion-4.gif[/img]
<div style="clear: both;"]</div>

I'll second that. I've rented this lens several times, and usually it's been smooth as silk. I'm renting one this weekend from LensRentals.com, and it appears the one they sent me was purchased this month (i.e. it's two weeks old). It's stiff compared to the others I've had.


Twist the ring, and push the little round button!

[btaylor]

Mine is brand new and does stiffen up slightly then turning the zoom ring when close to 24mm. Seems to be a normal thing so I wouldn't stress about it.