Sample Variations With GM Lenses?

[snegron]

I've had mixed luck in the past with several Sony non-GM lenses regarding decentering issues. I'm looking into getting amy first GM prime (haven't decided between the 35mm f1.4 GM or 24mm f1.4 GM as I use both focal lenghts equally). However, I really don't want to go through the hassle of having to return it until I get a good copy like I did with the other non-GM Sony lenses in the past.

The source, or the place I purchased the decentered lenses, were from a couple of different well known online retailers, so it's not specific to one particular store.

What are your experiences with sample variations with GM lenses, especially the 24mm and/or 35mm 1.4's?

p.s. I'm not trying to offend anyone or criticize Sony, I'm just trying to anticipate what to expect. In addition to owning a Sony A7c and a Sony a7iv, I also own a Canon R6II. I have purchased Canon L lenses in the past that were bad copies and ended up replacing them as well, so I am well aware thar premium price doesn't always equal premium performance.

 

[AlphaWorld]

I have bought quite a few GM lenses, and had no problems with any of them. But I have bought every one of them from a bricks-and-mortar store.

After a bad experience buying a Nikon lens from Amazon (arrived in an overlarge box with a single air pillow which provided no protection at all. The plastic clamshell inside the Nikon box was smashed - I have no idea how much impact that must have required), I just won't buy lenses from online stores. Prior to that experience I had bought a few second-hand Leica M lenses - but those lenses were beautifully packed (KEH), and probably much more resistant to shipping damage (no optical stabilisation, no AF, nothing but robust manual focus helix).

Lenses shipped to a store are packed into large boxes, and I suspect they get shipped more carefully than online shopping, because each box would be quite valuable.

Is it possible your experiences are due to the shipping more than the lens variations?

 

[snegron]

I have bought quite a few GM lenses, and had no problems with any of them. But I have bought every one of them from a bricks-and-mortar store.

After a bad experience buying a Nikon lens from Amazon (arrived in an overlarge box with a single air pillow which provided no protection at all. The plastic clamshell inside the Nikon box was smashed - I have no idea how much impact that must have required), I just won't buy lenses from online stores. Prior to that experience I had bought a few second-hand Leica M lenses - but those lenses were beautifully packed (KEH), and probably much more resistant to shipping damage (no optical stabilisation, no AF, nothing but robust manual focus helix).

Lenses shipped to a store are packed into large boxes, and I suspect they get shipped more carefully than online shopping, because each box would be quite valuable.

Is it possible your experiences are due to the shipping more than the lens variations?

Could be. I can't say for sure. However, the boxes that arrived for me were in good condition. Also, never had any issues with Tamron lenses I've received regardless of whatever online retailer I've purchased them from.

I wish there was a brick and mortar store near me, but the closest thing is Best Buy. A couple of hundred miles away from me there is a family owned brick and mortar shop. I've purchased from them in the past (cameras, bags, etc), but the last couple of times I was there they were very dismissive and unhelpful when I wanted to place an order for a camera from them. I decided they don't want my money, so I'm back to buying online from B&H, Amazon, etc.

 

[rcreamer]

I only learned about decentering and how to test for it in the past two years. Here are my lessons learned:

• Don't assume that returning an under-performing lens is a given with all of the online retailers. The wording of your reason for seeking a refund should be carefully researched to avoid problems.

• Beware of retailers that have a 30-day return policy but also a second, 5-day limit after which returns can be more difficult (and costly).

• Zoom lenses may be more susceptible to decentering issues.

• I recently rented and then bought (at a good price) a very well-centered 14mm Sony prime from Lens Rentals. Their inspection methodology may result in their inventory having fewer defects. (Rent - test - buy if good)