Jim Bob

You are damn straight. Lord, common sense finally emerges from the den idiocy. Thank you so much.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

Oh, there quite a few users of both the current and previous version that might also disagree. I don't listen to 'reviewers', those that make their living reviews, as much as I do to my very own testing. I'm very happy with my choice.

Revet Loc: Fairview Park, Ohio

Agreed, looking to reviews to make a decision only make things more confusing. That is why I wanted UHHer's with personal experience using the 16-80's opinion. Unfortunately they were very varied also. Ultimately I will see how I like it compared to the 18-200. If it is not a significant improvement, I will sell it and put the money towards a 70-22 f/2, which is the lens I want the most. I though it would compliment the 16-80 and the 150-600 nicely (which is why I thought the 16-80 would be a good option at the reduced price in the package).

Jim Bob

What? The love of ignorance on this site is astonishing.

Jim Bob

Happy is good. People tend to justify their purchases because doing otherwise makes them uncomfortable. But that doesn't change the facts. The difference in these lenses in terms of image quality is minimal at best. You pay over 2 times as much for the Nikon. Find me one reviewer who maintains that the Nikon is anywhere close to two times better than the Tokina and I'll be glad to eat my words.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

Often you post great, on topic comments which are helpful. Unfortunately, this is not one of them! You comments on this post seem to have added at least a page to this topic. If the gentleman wants our opinions, why not let him obtain them. Feel free to add yours. Is it necessary to continuously belittle folks on here? Grab you camera and go out and have some fun! Best of luck.

Jim Bob

Well, I call then as I see them. If the truth hurts, so be it. It's raining now. But I hope to get out when I can. Take care.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

My point was that I really don't care what the reviewers have said. The all have their own set of biases. My Nikon cost what it costs and does exactly what I need it to do, and performs flawlessly. I could care less what the Tamron, or any other, do. As a Nikon Pro member, I'm expected to use mostly Nikon equipment, and that's exactly what I do. A good example, for me, of a non Nikon lens I own and use, is the Sigma 50 ART. Nikon has been told, by many of us, that they really need to improve their current offering. The great reviews of this Sigma lens did lead me to look into it, but the purchase decision was my own. After purchase, I sold my Nikon locally to someone who was happy to get it at a discount. I don't try to justify my purchases to anyone but me, and all are based on what I need to accomplish my assignments. If that means a new purchase, that's what happens. Best of luck my friend.

Jim Bob

Great post and I can appreciate your perspective. However, despite your rather cynical view about reviewers in general, I have found those that are reputable clearly state their biases up front and proceed with an in depth analysis of the equipment in question. For example, Thom Hogan is a Nikon aficionado but his equipment reviews are extremely thorough. Many of us do not have the means to personally test every piece of equipment before making a purchase decision. A good review can be an invaluable tool. If you tell me that in your experience the Sigma 50 eats Nikon's for lunch, I would be an idiot not to at least give that analysis some consideration wouldn't you agree?

Revet Loc: Fairview Park, Ohio

Is a comment like this really necessary???? I asked a simple question from people I look to for advice and help when I am unsure about a topic in photography. I am not a photographer, I am a veterinarian who is enthusiastic about photography and enjoy passing my time doing it as I approach retirement age. If you asked me a question about a pet of yours, I certainly would not try to belittle you.

At my level, do I warrant using a d500?? Absolutely not, but I just sold my practice that I started from scratch 27 years ago and the D500 is what I wanted for a gift to myself for many years of hard work. The spring deal comes along one week before I knew my practice sold. Once I was sure it sold, I needed to take advantage of it the deal quickly. I didn't have time to rent the 16-80 to run my own comparisons so I went to the reviews. Some say it is the best glass you can put on a Dx lens, others not as good. On the other hand, most reviews and my experience with the 18-200 is it was a great lens when 12 Mp cameras were the top of the line. Some of my 3rd party lens have far better IQ so I thought it was time to improve what I would use on the new D500. I honestly was unsure so I came to UHH for advice and others experience. The advice was great and it helped me make a decision that was right for me.

Again, thanks to everyone for their comments.

jmw44 Loc: Princeton, NJ USA

Good for you. Congratulations on your retirement. I'm sure you'll enjoy the camera. I'm glad you're here.

Jim Bob

Yes. It is.