Need Tele-zoom Rec

[waynecrider]

I'm shooting an N80 and am looking for a tele-zoom that I can put a 2x on occasionally. My needs are for something that can get me out to 400mm with or without the multiplier and which has decent optics. Extreme focal length ends do not have to be all that great but I need something that will give me good resolution in the 200 to 400 range. 3rd party lenses would be ok. My price range is aound $650, with a used lens probably being the best buy.

 

[TPPhotog]

Wayne,

I'll take first punt at a recommendation and hopefully you'll get a few more suggestions. IMO it's better to go for the tele-zoom than add a x2 converter. My reasoning being you will effectively lose 2 stops so unless you have a fast lens (big money) in the first place you are going to be limited.

I usually only use Nikon or Sigma EX lens but I would recommend the Tokina AT-X AF 80-400mm 4.5-5.6 and I'm not saying that because I have one up in the equipment for sale thread It's not a top of the range lens and not the fastest auto-focus either, but the results are good. Search google and you'll find the usual variety of opinions on this one.

HTH Tony