Nikon 600mm f4 VR

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Anyone out there got this lens, I'm after a wildlife lens and just wondered how sharp this is. My alternative might be the 400mm f2.8 VR with a 1.4x TC which will make it a 560mm f4 (I think) which is an alternative.

Thanks.
 
This one was I think with the Nikon 400mm F2.8VR with the 1.4x TC. (Nikon300)
Lucky to pull it off with slow shutter speed plus the added 1.5X from the camera.

Herc1024.jpg
 
That is an odd question, why would you doubt such a lens isn't sharp? Wh wouldpay that much money if it wasn't?

For a more specific comparison against the 400mm f/2.8 + 1.4xTC, the 600mm is sharper and will have measurably more reach and without any issues that TCs bring. The 400mm is tempting because it gives you the f/2.8 when needed but it is only worth it if you know you will be shooting large enough animals close enough to make use of 400mm frequently enough. If you are shooting birds then the 600mm is the logical choice. The 400mm is more aimed at sports than wildlife. if you cna get close enough to your subject to fill the frame with the 400mm then it will be slightly sharper, moreover a slightly different perspective gives a little more 3D look, and less haze. But that is big caveat.


The 500mm f/4.0 is actually by far the most popular super tele because it is a compromise of reach, weight, size and aperture - plus it is decently cheaper than the 400 and 600mm models. The latter 2 can have serious issues transporting in small regional planes whereas the 500mm will genuinely go anywhere.
 
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Personally I wouldn't look at anything shorter than the 500 for wildlife (with a crop body). If shooting exclusively FF you'll want 600/800.

From personal experience the 600 is a big bugger and will attract (generally unwanted, ie 20 questions) attention if you're anywhere where there are other photographers. 500 or the popular 100-400 does seem to be the norm.
 
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