I am happy to say that I FINALLY have my bird photography setup complete. Over the last 9 years I have steadily improved my camera bodies, starting with a Nikon D50, then moving to a D200, the D300, and now my D600. I may upgrade the body again soon, but I want to just improve my skills first. As for lenses, I've gone through a few, made some uninformed purchases, and wallowed in regret. But yesterday I received a used Nikon 80-400mm and so far I'm thrilled! This lens and camera will give me exactly what I want: long reach, low weight, good quality glass, and the ability to shoot without the need for a tripod.
Coming from a Nikon 70-200mm 2.8 (a great lens) I was expecting that the 80-400 was going to be terribly heavy. But since its not a fixed aperture lens, it has less glass.The weight is almost the same as the 70-200. Honestly, it feels lighter, easier to handle. I haven't had a chance to play with it much, though. I love the reach! I am not good with binoculars , maybe due to an astigmatic left eye, so I've always relied on a camera to see birds. 200mm is just not enough. And now I don't have to deal with it anymore.
Will I sell the 70-200mm? Probably. But the verdict is still out.
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