I am about to acquire a used 40D with lens (17-55f/2.8) for outdoor and indoor use.  Any comments or hesitations?  ***Just a quick update, I found an awesome deal on a 40D locally with a good lens and have since acquired a good zoom to add.  I really like this camera and probably will suffer more financially because of this than I ever did traditional archery!  

Best,
Chris

I have the 40D with a 28-70f2.8L lens and I get very good results. I use it for family, some wedding and general photograpy. Noise levels are good at higher ISO and overall I am very happy with it. I would like to go full frame one day but I have to save some more first.    

Being a crop camera the 17-55f/2.8 lens should be a great match and be suitable for most general photography. A good flash like the 580II would be a benefit as well.

All the best with your photograpy.

Jeff

I have a 30D with several lenses and think its great. A f/2.8 lens is good for lower light conditions and subject isolation. My travel kit is the 30D a 10-22, a 50 f/1.8, and a 100-400 which covers most anything. I've never really tried using a flash. I bought all my gear used except for the 50 and it's a good way to go as most people take good care of expensive stuff, sort of like bows!! There is a brisk used gear market on  www.fredmiranda.com  which I highly recommend for photo info as well.

I've got a 30D and love it. I use a 28-135 for most stuff and have a 70-200 2.8 that's nice too. Canon is a great camera. you won't be dissapointed.

Here's a shot with the 70-200.

if you can afford it,  I would suggest you go with the 50D. It's a great camera and worlds above its predecesor.   It's better for lower light conditions as well.

According to a few pro's the 40D is a better unit than the 50D.

It's mostly the same.  The 50 has more focus points, higher mp and iso.  I own both and use the 50 primarily and the 40 as a short lens or a backup.  Both are great but the 50 is better.  Every photographer has their own likes and dislikes though....