I currently have a 80-400VR, it's a great lens and I don't have a problem with it, but I'm trying to get more reach in bird shooting. So I'm thinking of getting a 300mm and using my TC1.7EII along with it for an effective reach of approximately 760mm. I guess I'm asking for advise from anyone. After reviewing some pictures posted that were taken with the 300mm and the TC1.7 combination, I was impressed.
Hi Louis, I used to own both the 80-400 and the 300/f4. I liked the 80-400 and loved the 300. The 80-400 gives you a lot more flexibility plus the VR. The 300's picture quality was slightly better IMHO and while no speed demon had faster AF than the 80-400. I was very happy with the 1.4 TC but less happy with the 1.7 on it. If you are finding that most of your wildife shots are at 400mm with the 80-400 then I would go with the 300. I kept the 80-400 and sold the 300mm when I bought my 500mm lens. I do miss the 300 and hope to get one again in the future.
Louis, As Harry said, the 300 is a great lens. Harris (Backdoctor) still shoots with one and get outstanding results alone and with the 1.4 TC. He has also reported slightly less than stellar performance with the 1.7 TC. I shoot with the 300 2.8 (which is a great lens, but heavy as heck). I sometimes use the 1.7 TC on it, but find that it isn't as sharp as the lens alone or with the 1.4 TC (some of this may be due to lens shake showing up at the longer focal length though). My favorite combo for shooting birds is the 300 2.8 and the 1.4 TC. It gives reasonable length, and great sharpness. From what I've seen of Harry's and Harris's shots, the 300 f4 isn't far behind. I think you would enjoy it.
Harry and Frank, thanks for you input. I'm trying to weigh all of the angles before committing to going in one direction. I know I what a longer lens for birds it's just what one I decide upon. I'll let you know, but both of your inputs have been helpful. Thanks
Well I currently shoot the 300F4 + 1.4 and could not be happier. Most of my recent posts have been with this combo on my D2Hs.
