Canon EF 28-80mm Zoom Lens Ultrasonic

[HalasPete]

Bought this lens off eBay. Thinking it is first generation of the 28-80mm zoom ultrasonic. Is there a manual for this lens?

[HalasPete]

“Used Lens With Visible Light Oil Haze Using Strong Light, Overall In Excellent Working Condition" was the description.

[HalasPete]

1: Canon 5d II

2: Vintage lens

3: Varies from paycheck to paycheck

4: Am more interested in prime lenses than zoom lenses. Even there, the difference between a f1.2 50mm and a f1.8 50mm is be visible.

Don't think I'll be looking for more lenses after I get the 20 something to 100 something mm lens figured out. I'll be looking for filters next.

[Tronhard]

OK.  Well, in the vintage lens lineup, there are a few similar lenses -  I have the 28-105 IS USM, which is an excellent lens.  But if your preference is primes, then I assume you will head in that direction.

[shadowsports]

Follow Ernie's advice above..  Return this lens.  The oil haze part was your "red flag".  My feeling is this would be something to avoid.  (respectfully).

A 24~70 (best) or 24~105 (good) would be much better.  Know that the 24~70 is sharper than the 105.  If you are looking for a bargain, you will need to buy used as @normadel recommends.  

[ebiggs1]

"I'll be looking for filters next."

Photoshop! 😁

[NatalyaP]

Greetings, HalasPete

I'm sorry but a user guide for the EF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 USM lens is no longer available. This lens has reached the end of its support life to where parts are no longer manufactured and our service facility no longer performs repairs or service for this lens model.

In case the lens is not functioning to factory specifications then you may be interested in participating in our Canon Upgrade Program. The Canon Upgrade Program option allows you to replace your current lens with a new or refurbished Canon lens at a discounted price. If you would like to take part in the Canon Upgrade Program, please call our Sales Department at 1-866-443-8002 from Monday - Saturday between 9:00 am to 9:00 pm ET. Let them know you have been working with email technical support and the Canon Upgrade Program was offered. Be sure to have your serial number for your lens available at the time of your call.

[MikeSowsun]

Have you tried using the lens? What is the problem with the lens? I doubt you could return it because it is “as described”.  “Visible Light Oil Haze Using Strong Light,” just means if you use a strong flashlight, you will see some oil haze on the glass elements. This is fairly common on vintage lenses. It will cause some softness or “glow” in direct lighting situations, but this can  make for interesting photos with a vintage look. Use a hood and also add some contrast in post processing and it will probably give you great photos. 

The correct lens hood for this lens is the EW-68A but the EW-68B will also work.

[MikeSowsun]

You would need a service manual in order to open up an EF lens. The user manual for Canon lenses is very basic.

Here is the EF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 USM user manual.

[HalasPete]

Thank you!

[HalasPete]

I could return it as part of eBay return policy, however I think that's a **bleep** move. I'll invest in having it cleaned. There is visible oil on the lens, on the outside. I knew it wasn't perfect, but enjoy old lenses. Have had other "old" items cleaned, restored, and worked for years after.