Yet another canon lens question

Ok, so Ive got it down that the kit lens for my eos 300 is the source of my
displeasure, lack of sharpness. Now the lense to get seems to be the 28-105 f
3.5 4.5
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=
&sku=206434&is=USA

Thanks to all who suggested. This is just a tad bit over my budget at the
moment, but Ive come across this.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=
&sku=800310526&is=USE

Is this a good lens too? It has the same aperture ratings. Is it just an older
model that may be a bit louder and slower focusing? Will it deliver the same
optical quality as the other one? There were actually 2 of these listed this
morning. The other one was listed with no marks on it. This particular one
might not be a good buy because of the marks on the lens listed but Im sure
another will come along. Can anyone recommend this or give it a thumbs down?
Thanks.

George

 

IIRC, this lens is the predecessor to the recommended 28-105. Again
IIRC, it was similarly well regarded in it's day, although that was
before I switched to AF.

Personally, I'd suggest considering waiting until you can find a used
28-105. The missing focal length between 28 and 35 can be very useful.

You might do a Google groups search in rec.photo.marketplace.35mm to
see if anyone has offered one up for sale in the last month or two. KEH
at http://www.keh.com is an excellent used dealer, they don't have one
now but certainly will eventually.

If you think you may get a digital SLR in the future, the Canon 24-85
deserves mention. Although I don't think it's as well rated as the
28-105 (barely), it's a very useful length with Canon consumer DSLR's.

Lisa

 

IIRC, this lens is the predecessor to the recommended 28-105. Again

Thanks Lisa for all the help. Ive picked up a 35-105 3.5 4.5 off ebay for $75.
Sadly someone will probably pay nearly that for my old zoom because its a newer
model. I will keep it for a while to compare to see if the af is any slower. Im
kinda used to the slow af on my canon a-10 digital so I dont think it will
bother me too much. I figure I can always get my money back on it if b&h sells
it used for $100 on a regular basis. Thanks again for all your help.

George

 

You're quite welcome George, and I'm certain that you will be more
satisfied with your new lens than with the kit lens. If this is your
first real USM lens, be prepared to be spoiled for life

Lisa