Allround telephoto zoom for beginners

[prakhardeep]

Finally got the nikon 70-300 amd i have to say it is really awesome...!!!
Checked sigma 70-300 too but it kept searching for focus while the nikon just got the focus in a snap

 

[TopDog]

Hi, I am looking for a 70 to 300 or 55 to 300 lens possibly my 2 "expert" friends say buy the nikon as the ones mentioned above (Sigma etc) are not reliable. Now like most i am not to flush and do not know if i can stretch to £300 or so for a decent lens. Any advice guys?

Oh I am getting the NikonD3100 as my first camera at the end of the month.....

 

[shaunly]

Why look outside of the Nikon? Their 70-300mm VR is dirt cheap IMHO. You can easily fine a mint condition one for under $400. It's a great lens with very good optics and If you do decide to upgrade to a pro 70-200/2.8, the Nikon will hold it's value much better than third party lens. That's exactly what I did and now I want it back for the extra reach and the small/light package considering it's range.