600 f/4 Nikon (VR discussion)

[Formatted]

Hay Gang.

I've been offered a very good deal on a Nikon 600mm f/4 AF-S II. As you can imagine a lense like this is a massive investment, with all the extra kit I'm going to have to get to get for this lense its not going to be a small purchase.

When thinking about something like this I must consider the fact there is already a replacement for this lense the Nikon 600 f/4 AF-S VR I.

Is VR worth the extra invested capital? I could buy myself a D3 for the amount extra it would cost.

 

[gsgary]

I take it this has no VR, what will you be shooting ? I shoot a Canon 300mmF2.8 with a 2x and no IS because i shoot sports so don't need it

 

[Formatted]

what will you be shooting ?

Mainly wildlife, often birds.

Rowing and sailing are also something I would do. Also got a few ideas for portrait work with a long lense.

 

[gsgary]

what will you be shooting ?

Mainly wildlife, often birds.

Rowing and sailing are also something I would do. Also got a few ideas for portrait work with a long lense.

I think i would want VR for wildlife although if you get a gimble head you could be ok

 

[pgriz]

A lens that big I'd be shooting on a tripod, or at the very least, a monopod. I don't have any lenses that big, but a pro buddy who does never (so he tells me) shoots it handheld. I've looked through it, and I can't really imagine shooting without some kind of support (unless, of course, you have arms like Popeye). And if you ARE shooting it on a tripod, do you really need VR?

 

[tirediron]

I've shot the 400 2.8 handheld and I DON'T recommend it, this beast is even heavier. If you're shooting with glass like that, you're going to need a GOOD tripod and gimble head. If the deal is that good, say, <$4000, I would grab it.

 

[Formatted]

The other parafinalie I was talking about was the tripod and the head which is going to set me back another £900 or so. I'll also be using it on a bean bag as well where VR might become useful.

Anyone know if the AF is better on the VR model or is it similar?