Dustin has completed the Canon Rumors review of the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. Dustin replaced his beloved EF 70-300 f/4-5.6L IS lens with the updated 100-400mm and seems to be pretty happy with his decision.
Dustin compares the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II to the EF 70-300 f/4-5.6L IS, Tamron 150-600 f/5-6.3 VC and the original EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS and it's easy to see which lens came out on top.
From Dustin:
I’m not finding much to criticize with this lens. It isn’t cheap, but it is a pretty killer optic with a pro grade build quality. It’s expensive ($2199), but no more so than Canon’s 70-200 f/2.8L or 24-70 f/2.8L variants. When compared with the higher end telephotos, however, it is a great bargain. It offers great reach in a compact package that most users should be able to handhold due to its manageable weight and excellent image stabilizer. It has amazing image quality with next to no real shortcomings. Read the full review
I must admit I've never seriously shot with the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II, but I have yet to run into someone that has that doesn't love the lens.
Canon EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS II $2199: B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon