70-200 2.8 IS, Ver.I problems?

[gardener]

I have the noted lens, bought new several years ago, that seems to have developed an issue or two.
1. Since new, any Canon camera (5 total) I've used this on seems to have very limited battery life, that is... I can shoot a LOT of images with any other IS lens I own and can go almost a full day before the low battery indicator starts blinking. Conversely, with the 70-200 on and IS enabled, I MIGHT get 100 to 250 shots max. I really don't think it's a battery issue since all my batteries seem to work ok otherwise as well as holding a good charge. I would also mention here that I have the "grip" accessory for my 5D, 40D, and 50D but prefer not to use them most of the time. The problem isn't as noticible with my M2n but then, it's a much bigger and stronger battery.
2. When IS is enabled, the lens shakes noticibly when IS kicks in or out. I certainly expect a small motion or click when the gyros kick in to stablize the lens elements but it seems to have become far more noticible with age (the lens age, not mine).
Otherwise, the lens seems to work as well as it ever did and focus is fine. The only issues are camera battery life and the noticible shake when IS kicks in. Although I'm probably like everyone else who'd like to have the newest and possibly better gear, I've had good luck with this lens so far and see no reason to upgrade to the newer Version II at this point in time.

Opinions? Thoughts? Anyone else's similar history with this lens? Send it in to Canon for a check out? Just live with it?

I appreciate any and all thoughts on the matter...
Steve W

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by gardener

Send it in to Canon for a check out?
Steve W

Bingo!