TL;DR: Stick with the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM for a reliable, professional setup that wont let you down. Glad to hear you are sorted. Personally, I always prioritize reliability over flashy specs. I have been very satisfied with the 24-105mm L series because the weather sealing is top-notch and it just works every single time. To keep the investment safe, I highly recommend using a Canon 77mm Protect Filter at all times. Its a conservative approach, sure, but it saves you from costly repairs later on. No complaints from my side after a year of heavy use. It provides a level of consistency that is hard to find elsewhere in the lineup.

Re: "TL;DR: Stick with the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L..."

• I totally agree with V677oe on that. That lens is basically glued to my body 90% of the time. But honestly, you might want to consider being even more careful with the glass. I learned my lesson the hard way back in Iceland a few years ago. I was using a thinner protector and a sudden gust of wind knocked my setup over. The glass shattered and actually scratched the front element. It was a total heartbreaker. Since then, I've been super cautious and I would suggest checking out the B+W 77mm Master 010 UV-Haze MRC Nano instead. It runs about $95 but the brass mount is way less likely to bind on the threads, and the coating is incredible for keeping flare down when you're shooting into the sun. Also, make sure to look at a Peak Design Slide Camera Strap. I've seen those stock Canon straps fray at the edges after a year of heavy use, and I just dont trust them with expensive L-series glass anymore. Better to be safe than sorry tho...