Originally posted by Cooties Bit of a thread dig up, but yesterday I received this exact lens (serial number 9013560) from (a popular Sydney online retailer) and have come to the conclusion that it is indeed a crap lens and should go straight in the bin.
Right side of the lens is rubbish up to f8 from 16mm to ~35mm, left side is bad at 50mm (how does that work ??).
I have arranged to have this lens replaced but I just thought I'd give this forum a search and see if the serial number popped up... Not real impressed to say the least. I knew something was up when the serial number on the box didn't match the lens and the aperture lever on the lens mount was worn.
Not sure if its against forum rules to "name and shame" but at least this store has been good in replying to my emails and sorting out a replacement. Hopefully I'll get a new lens this time.
Now that is a big concern.
I have long wondered what happens when lenses are returned. How easy it would be just to pop it back into a box and send it off to the next person.
The lady from Adorama assured me that they (Adorama) would not do this as they had a policy of shipping un-opened boxes only.
I found this out only after asking her if someone at Adorama would open the box, take some shots with the lens and email the shots to avoid exactly this situation. Not unsurprisingly that request was refused, and thats when the shipping policy came to light, from that particular store.
It is sad and dis-appointing to hear your story, and yes, I think you have every right to name. Afterall, they all enjoy the praise when its being offered.