For normal zoom lens' choice.

[DNA]

Hi Bob,

As you recommend, I am considering to buy 70-300IS(non DO). But problem is the normal range. Actually, I decide not to use crop body. Instead, I am waiting for FF body with cheaper price. But it might take quite long time. So, I have to choose normal zoom right now.

My lenses' line up would be normal zoom (18-55 or 17-85) + 70-300IS + 100f2 or 85f1.8.
If I make up lenses like this, do you think whether is better for me to buy 18-55IS or 17-85IS.

In addition, I might make up lenses line up:  24-105L + 70-300IS + 100f2 or 85f1.8 for the future plan (right after the advent of pretty reasonable FF body).

Thanks.
Don

[KeithB]

I have the 17-85IS and a new 70-300 IS.  I think that this is a good combination.  I just took a trip around New Mexico, and generally, the 17-85 was all I needed.  When we went to the Rio Grande Zoo I switched to the 70 - 300 and it worked perfectly.  I think you will have to change lenses a lot more if you have the gap between 55 and 70 mm.  While it is not hard changing lenses, it can be a bit of a juggle in practice - and you might miss a shot!

Just a note, my Rebel XT and 17-85 got dropped about 2-3 ft. on a concrete floor but the only damage appeared to be to the plastic filter ring, everything else seems to be working fine.  Now that I have the 70-300 I can send the 17-85 back to Canon to be fixed.

[MikeBinOK]

A short-term way to get by without spending a whole lot of money right now would be to get the 18-55 without the IS (though the IS version appears to be a better lens, has IS, and isn't THAT much more money).