Good deal on a Nikon 70-200mm VRII

[Lazarus52980]

I own a Nikon D5200 and am looking to try to get a single "all in one" for taking pictures of my kids, and some of their sports games. I found what looks to me like a good deal on a the Nikon 70-200mm VRII and was wondering if anyone else thinks this is a decenet deal.

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/dak/ele/4020288510.html

I know I need to inspect it, but the photos (and the 2 extra he sent me of the front lens, and the lens mount) all seem just about brand new...

He is also providing me the reciept, so I don't think this is stolen.

Thoughts? Anyone own this lens? Is it worth the $$?

 

[bargainsland]

I think it is reasonable price.It is selling for $2396 at bhphotovideo.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/644741-USA/

 

[Syborg1211]

I think that's a pretty good price. Definitely test out how well it focuses.

As for the lens itself, it's a pretty impressive lens in terms of sharpness, focus speed, and image stabilization. My only caveat is that the lens is enormous. It makes taking it around with you a struggle, and you do look pretty hardcore when you whip that thing out in public. It doesn't fit in all bags, is super heavy in said bag, and for the most part you can forget leaving the camera attached to the lens in your bag unless that's the only thing in your bag. If you can get over these "superficial" things, the lens is really the best you can get for that focal range.

Be mindful though that 70mm on a DX camera is pretty zoomed in for a minimum focal length. You might find yourself stepping back quite a bit, pretty often. You might look into the Sigma 50-150mm for the DX equivalent of the 70-200. I've read nothing but good things about it, and since it's made for DX it is smaller, lighter, and less expensive.

 

[Lazarus52980]

Well, I ended up purchasing it last night. You were right about the size! I don't might the weight (although I have not tried to carry it for hours yet) but it's just massive!

I can't WAIT to get home today and take some photos with it though...

Thanks for the advice all!

 

[slashbinslashbash]

How much was it? That lens is pretty much the gold standard. It might not prove to be right for your needs, but as far as mid-tele zooms go, that lens is the best you can get. It is the backbone of any sports photographer's kit.

 

[Lazarus52980]

How much was it? That lens is pretty much the gold standard. It might not prove to be right for your needs, but as far as mid-tele zooms go, that lens is the best you can get. It is the backbone of any sports photographer's kit.

I ended up paying $1650 for it. That is a LOT of $$ for me, but I think I should be able to get by with only this one lens for just about all my needs.

I have a lot of small children, so the lens is for taking "action" pictures of them, and also pictures/film at their sporting events. I may do some amature portriat work with it for fun too, since it seems good for that (or good enough). This plus my 35mm 1.8 and I think I am covered as a family photographer. (I hope...)

 

[slashbinslashbash]

Wow, that is a good deal. I don't really keep up with the Nikon prices, but I know that the Canon equivalent would be a steal at that price, and they have similar retail prices.

 

[Silenus]

I ended up paying $1650 for it. That is a LOT of $$ for me, but I think I should be able to get by with only this one lens for just about all my needs.

I have a lot of small children, so the lens is for taking "action" pictures of them, and also pictures/film at their sporting events. I may do some amature portriat work with it for fun too, since it seems good for that (or good enough). This plus my 35mm 1.8 and I think I am covered as a family photographer. (I hope...)

If it's in good working order, then yea...you basically stole it at that price. Enjoy!

 

[Lazarus52980]

If it's in good working order, then yea...you basically stole it at that price. Enjoy!

Near as I can tell, it is in perfect working order.