Canikon Guy Loc: Baltimore, MD

I agree, excellent lens, very sharp.

The only gripe I have is that Canon did not include a tripod collar with it.

Bob Yankle Loc: Burlington, NC

I picked up one from Fotodiox Pro, made especially for the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS at Amazon, pennies on the dollar for what Canon charged for theirs.

Canikon Guy Loc: Baltimore, MD

I read mixed reviews on the third party collars. From cheaply made to damaging the paint on the lens.

Knowing how I am, I most likely get the OEM from Canon.

Bob Yankle Loc: Burlington, NC

That's not been my experience, but by all means purchase the Canon. They seemed way overpriced to me, especially since the one on the 70-200mm f/2.8L was included in the price of the lens.

pigpen

All I can say is about my own experience. I owned the Sigma 150-500mm. Was not that impressed. Bought the Canon 400mm f/5.6. It made the Sigma look very bad, sold it right away. As far as the extra 100mm reach, I saw a review comparing this Sigma to this Canon. The guy photographed a $100 bill with both lenses at the same distance. The Canon at 400mm (obviously) and the Sigma at 500mm. He did this to show there was almost no difference. Why this is, I don't know. I had already sold the Sigma, so I couldn't duplicate the test.

I know people love this Sigma. Many get all pissy about it as though they are being attacked personally. I have no reason to lie. Just buy from B&H so you have 2 weeks to try them out and return which ever one you do not like. B&H is great about this, all you do is pay return shipping. As long as they get it back in perfect condition, they refund every penny. Just one of many reasons I buy from B&H. :thumbup:


PS If you are determined to have a zoom, the Sigma may be the answer because I have seen many soft images from the Canon 100-400mm.

Canikon Guy Loc: Baltimore, MD

I'm in no rush. If I need one I'll decide then. It is not a heavy lens like the 70-200 f/2.8 IS or the 100-400.

Adorama, Amazon, B&H will have one at my door in two days or less.

pigpen

Everything by Canon is overpriced. I was hoping the improvements being made by Tamron, Sigma, & Tokina would have an affect on the Canon prices, but obviously not.

If you spend $14,000 on the Canon 600mm L, the lens hood costs an additional $700! BULLSHIT!!!

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

(SS) when considering the two lenses, always consider that the Sigma weighs almost a pound and a quarter more than the Canon zoom. And that weight is mostly out at the end in the bigger objective lens, where rotational mass is the most extreme. Just something to keep in mind, since it may go from handholdable to relagating some users to strictly using a tripod.
SS

Bob Yankle Loc: Burlington, NC

Let's not forget the new kid on the block, Canon's newest long lens, the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM with built-in Extender 1.4x. But at $11,800 USD, it's a might steep for most of us.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

So, Pigpen, you are suggesting that Canon charge $14.7K and include the hood? If we don't need it, ya think we could sell it back?

Pigpen, I take it, you have NOT ordered a 600 yet?!

SS

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Bob, it's no wonder Nikon is always 1 1/2 steps behind.
Now, that's a sweet lens.
SS

pigpen

I just think that another $700 investment for the hood, after you've already dropped $15,000, is rediculous. I've owned cars that cost less than $700. No, I haven't ordered the 600mm yet, but I can provide my address if you'd like to get me an early Christmas gift. :thumbup:

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Pigpen, if you provide your address, I guarantee I will send SOMETHING.
be forewarned, others may not be as nice.

Hey, I can't argue that the 600 does not cost a LOT, it does.
Pigpen, I used to have a 500. Bought it used for $4900. Sold it for $6000.
Always buy low, and sell high !!
SS

SteveR Loc: Michigan

A good 400mm f2.8 with a 1.4 teleconverter almost gives you 600mm. Alternatively, there's the 500mm.

pigpen

Doesn't matter, I can't afford any of them. Just commenting on the rediculous prices.