Strategy session: If you need the Canon 24-105 f4 L IS USM and a fullframe body...

Obviously the Canon 5DMk2 is a new camera and has lots of newer features and of course the claim-to-fame HD-Video. However, if you don't have a big need for video, and you are okay with using an older body, and you need or want to buy the Canon 24-105L f4 lens, here is one strategy to consider that will get you a new (or a backup) full-frame dSLR body and the Canon 24-105L IS USM at a reasonable price.

The Canon 24-105L IS USM lens on its own costs $1100 or more at the moment. Some retailers are currently out of stock, but you can get it shipped right now for $1150 at B&H Photo. Obviously, if you only need the lens, then proceed no further.

However, if you also need a full-frame DSLR body, be it as your main DSLR or a backup DSLR, consider this: For $2600, you can get the Canon 5D (original) with the 24-105L lens at Adorama. The current price for the 5D Mark I body-only remains at $2000.

So, depending on how you do the math, with the aforementioned kit, you are getting the Canon 5D Mark I body for $1500, or the 24-105 LISUSM for $600; assuming prices of $2000 for DSLR and $1100 for lens.

As a reminder, the 5DMk2 body-only goes for $2700, and the kit with the 24-105L for $3500. So in a similar breakdown of the kit, you are getting the 5DMk2 body-only for $2400 or the 24-105L for $800. The former is now a easier to find (see 5DMk2 blog), while the latter is harder to find, although right now it is in-stock at Adorama for $3500.

As you can see, this poses some of the classic DSLR-buying trade-offs. Just something to ponder...

Further Reading
+ List of 5DMk2 reviews
+ List of 5DMk1 reviews (original 5D)
+ 5DMk2 diary-blog and mini-blog