Tamron service: give the 17-35 f2.8-f4 another try?

[robert lee]

So, I was looking around for a (super)wide zoom for my Canon 1.6x crop

digital and standard film SLR. The Tamron 17-35 seemed well liked,

and the $300 price tag for a used one was irresistable. I placed the

order.

 

I did some quick tests on the digital body when the lens came in. Man

oh man, this thing was softer than Charmin's.

 

Optically, something was seriously wrong. The test images were much

worse than the sample frames one sees in reviews here in PN and

elsewhere. The lens went back to the dealer today.

 

Now, the question is, do I take another chance on Tamron? I assume my

copy just fell through the QA cracks; I suspect others on the used

market is likely to be in similar circumstances. However, having

handled the lens awhile, I quite like the handling and am willing to

purchase one new. So, is the Tamron warranty actually worth anything?

If my new lens proves similarly broken, is the manufacturer likely to

make good in a reasonable manner? What has been your experience with

Tamron service?

[d_weissman]

Go for it. You got a bad one. I have been using this lens

om both a 10D and 20D for better than a year. I am very

happy with the results. I have used it for taking group

photos at dog shows and individual dogs in the ring.

I have taken wonderful outdoor scenery shots on hikes with

my Boy Scout son on treks. My only complaint is a noisy motor...compared to my EF 24-70 L 2.8.

[richard_tynan2]

I bought a new one and the first copy I got was terribly soft at all apertures. It was not usable.

 

The replacement is fine and performs well. It's a very nice lens.