Summary: A good lens with a very effective Image Stabilization system. Perhaps the best "one lens" choice for the Digital Rebel XT and EOS 20D.

The Canon EF-S 17-85/4-5.6 IS USM is designed for use on the Canon EOS Digital Rebel, Digital Rebel XT and EOS 20D Digital SLRs. It's a general purpose lens with a field of view coverage equal to that which would be given by a 27-136mm zoom on a full frame 35mm camera, so it's pretty much an analog of the well respected EF 28-135/3.5-5.6 IS USM. It covers the focal lengths most commonly used by the majority of photographers. [ more ]

I currently own a 300D Digital Rebel that came with the stock EF-S 18-55mm, f3.5-5.6 lens. I have tried to use that stock lens as my general walk-around lens for about a year and have never been too happy with its performance. I'm planning on doing some upgrades to most of my equipment come April and I may just have to add this new offering to my shortlist.