Scratched lens is fixable?
 

I've got a 3x wide angle lens with surface scratches that are visible through the viewfinder. Is there a way to get fixed or is the lens trashed?

B

The front element can be re-polished, but would probably cost more than simply buying a mint secondhand complete 3X lens to replace it.

Front element scratches do not affect the image as much as rear element scratches and marks. The worst affects, depending on the size of the scratches, would normally be with single-colour backgrounds such as blue or grey skies, or if you are filming directly towards sunlight or light bulbs etc.

I would advise that you first spend some time actually taking a series of clips in different situations and light conditions, and then closely check the downloaded footage to see if you can actually see it on a large screen. You may find that although fine scratches can be seen in the viewfinder it may be absent from the footage. Make sure that you use the lens hood and remove any filters prior to the test.