Overview

The Canon FL 35mm f/2.5 is a fully manual, all-metal lens from 1964 with a smooth focus ring and a two-ring aperture system (Robin Groen). Optically, it is slightly soft wide open but sharpens quickly, with punchy, representative colors and some character (Robin Groen). It is surprisingly sharp even wide open and renders nice colors with a special character. Build is solid and reliable, though the breech lock is fiddly at first (Robin Groen). It adapts well to mirrorless cameras but is not weather-sealed (Robin Groen). It suits photographers who enjoy vintage character and don't mind manual operation, often found at a bargain price.