On my new 50 f/1.4, the focusing barrel - I assume this is what is meant by the "front element" - has about .5mm play in it when fully extended and it gets less as the barrel retracts. Doesn't strike me as unusual, my 28-135 is certainly like that. I've always considered it normal. But maybe there is some QC involved. My lens seems a little bit hit or miss with achieving sharp focus. It's better when focused further out than when close. Could this be because of the play in the barrel? Anyone else corroborate this?
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