Should I buy a Nikon 300/2.8 VR 1

merv

merv

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Mervyn
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Have been looking for a used one of these 300/2.8 lenses. A VR 1 version has become available - am I sensible in buying it or should I wait for a VR II version?
Mind you both are like hens teeth to get and the VR II will be dearer. Opinions please
merv
 
http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/used-equipment/used-lenses/used-nikon-fit-lenses/

They have both versions of the lens in stock, currently £1000 difference in price, the VRI on sale. Never used the Nikon version, but if my experience with the Canon MKI version, I've no complaints it's a fantastic lens. Would I buy the MKII version, maybe if I won the lottery ;) although the 200-400mm f4 would be top of my list.

I would say that the 300mm f2.8 VR I would meet all your requirements for £1000 less than the VRII
 
I have a VR, (I suppose it is now called a VR1), no complaints whatsoever ……. I do not think I will ever sell it.

Always on a tripod and VR seldom used …… for me it is too heavy to hand hold …… on a cushion or resting on something, maybe but best on a tripod with a good head, I find the Manfrotto 393 at £120 ideal for birds and nature versus the famous gimbal

works well with a TC14Ell and TC20Elll so you have up to 2 x 1.5 x 300 = 900mm on a DX body at f5.6 or better

There's a VR for sale on here isn't there
 
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The only differences between the VR and the VR II models are:
(1) the VR II has a slight better VR system (4 stops of stabilisation claimed, vs 3 stops for the older lens);
(2) a new "M/A" focus mode to get confused with "A/M".
If your intended usage is pushing the VR capabilities to their limits, then the VR II model might justify a price premium. But it probably won't.

Incidentally the VR II proclaims that it has Nano Coating. However the older one did too - it just didn't make a fuss about it.
 
I too have the VRI, bought new for a safari trip a few years ago. I love mine and use it with both 1.4 and 2x nikon converters (the 2 x is the 'III' version).
 
I have the VR2 - these are approx £3000 min 2nd hand. It is awesome.
Didn't try the VR1 - these are £2200 - ish..

I'm sure it will be great & you will love it no matter which version you get.
 
Thanks guys for that. Yes its the one on here I'm considering. Its VR1 and immaculate. I already have the TC 20E III and its very good. Used it with the 300/f4 with poor results so have sold it in favour of a 300/2.8. After hearing all that will go ahead an clinch deal.
Thanks
merv
 
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