Canon's early APS-C superzoom with IS and USM, a popular all-in-one for early DSLRs.
The Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM launched in 2004 as Canon's first APS-C superzoom with IS and USM. Covering 27-136mm equivalent, it provided a versatile walk-around option for early Canon APS-C DSLRs like the 350D and 400D.
Optical quality is adequate for its era with decent centre sharpness and softening at the telephoto end. IS provides approximately 3 stops. USM motor is fast and quiet. Build is standard plastic with a metal mount.
Canon EF-S mount only, 67mm filter thread. Known for USM motor failures — a design weakness that affected many copies. The EF-S 18-135mm IS STM is the modern successor and dramatically better.
Very cheap used. The USM motor failure is the main concern — test AF thoroughly. If the motor works the lens is adequate. Any 18-135mm version is a better buy for similar money.