topic Re: EF300mm F/2.8 II in EF & RF Lenses

EF300mm F/2.8 II concerns about service ending in 2028

timp200 — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:26:31 GMT

I'm thinking about buying a EF 300mm lense but I recently saw that service dates are expected to end in 2028. Would anyone have any concern about buying one because of this? I think these are well built and maybe independent shops could service them if Canon can't, so maybe this isn't a concern.

Re: EF300mm F/2.8 II

kvbarkley — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:26:20 GMT

This is going to be an issue for *all* EF /EF-S lenses. If you have an R system, it might be best to stick with an RF lens if that worries you.

Note that 3years of use will pretty much get you your monies worth even if it does get unrepairable.

Re: EF300mm F/2.8 II concerns about service ending in 2028

p4pictures — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:45:04 GMT

Ultimately the supply of spare parts will be the issue that determines is a lens can be fixed or not. For sure pro specification L-series telephotos are designed with long functional life and durability.

If you think that the most common repair for this lens is the replacement of the front element or the replacement of the IS or AF units, then that is the part that will be unavailable most quickly. Once the supply of parts is used up then there's no way to repair without salvaging parts from other broken lenses.

Re: EF300mm F/2.8 II concerns about service ending in 2028

ebiggs1 — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:50:55 GMT

"Would anyone have any concern about buying one because of this?"

Absolutely none! I have seen some of Canon's big white lenses take some abuse that will curl your toenails over the years. Just make sure the one you are looking at is in good working order before you buy it.

I have one of my best friends that has had one for 30 years or so and it is still going strong, My 600mm L is about that old and is still working. Zero trouble.

If you ever get the chance to see how some "pros" treat gear that isn't theirs you would be a believer.