I purchased a package deal a few months ago a Nikon D500 and supposedly with a Nikkor 16-80 2.8 Zoom. The store "packaged" for the the 16-85 3.5 zoom because they were out of stock on the correct lens advertised by Nikon. They insisted the lens was just as good. Charged the same price. Are they correct, or just blowing me off.
I am not a professional photographer ... just like good stuff.
Appreciate any thoughts.

I had three FTN bodies back in the early 70's. This looks like the predessor, whatever model # that may be.

For overall dependability I have had bad luck with Panasonic products in general. Suggest looking at some Sony models, the HX80 for example.

When updating to my D500 8 mos ago, I was concerned about not having a built-in flash. It's been Ok.
I presume the D850 is the same situation.
I would love to hear more from users as I am considering a second body.
Thanks.

$650.00 for a Panasonic brand is crazy. Yes, they cover up their poor body quality and 90's technology with Leitz glass on some models, but still not worth that price. With with wide array of quality choices from Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Olympus, comparing to cars, why buy a Neon when you can have an Impala for the same price.
After exhaustive research, I'm buying a Sony HX80 30X zoom 20 mpxl to replace my 9 yr old Leica 5X zoom 7 mpxl. (I'll still keep the Leica and give it to my wife because it is better than her iPhone.)
My 3 cents.

The Lumix is made by Panasonic and it is only acceptable with the Leitz lens. The cheaper Panasonics are junk; had one once. You get what you pay for.

The Sony HX80 is the best "shirtpocket" from the results of my research. 19 mpxl, 30X zoom, Leitz lens, priced reasonably at $349 retail (discounts avail).
I'm replacing my 8 yr old Leica C-Lux and this is the best I have found.
A cellphone is NOT an option (shame shame !!).

Some of the Panasonics (same as Lumix) have a Leitz lens. They are ok. Otherwise, this brand is junk.

I have a Leica "pocket" that is only 7 mpxl with a zoom and 12 yrs old having given me good service (C-Lux3). Leica no longer makes a reasonably priced small camera.
I am looking at a Sony 19 mpxl with a Leitz lens for $350.00 to replace. A "Coolpix" is also an option. I call this my dinner party camera.
Any thoughts?
(My "serious" camera is a D500 with a FX lens.)

The fact of the matter is that SE Wisc is predicted to be 60% to 70% cloud cover on that day. 7 days out predictions are not perfect, but often a good indication.
So many might be wasting their time and money.

Everyone: Thanks for your responses. I guess I was most concerned about my eyes and forgetting about the potential damage to a good DLSR camera. B&H, Adorama, 42nd street, Amazon, and the only two local camera stores are all out of stock on solar protective filters. Everyone said don't waste you time looking further. One store was somewhat helpful saying to turn on the TV during the eclipse and take a picture of the screen; you will be safe!
I had another idea to use my 13 yr-old Leica 5.1 mpxl "shirtpocket" on a tripod and not look through the lens. If the camera burns up, I won't care. I'll replace with a Nikon "compact" coolpix with higher mpxls for dinner parties.

In my area (SE Wisc) the eclipse will be about 83% at max. Are the precautions still the same? How about I set up the camera in advance and shoot without looking through the lens?
If it makes a difference, I will be using a 28-300 FX lens on a D500 DX body.
Thanks.

SKH:
Your infor is EXTREMELY helpful. I believe my problem is solved or will be very quickly. Thanks a bunch.
CO:
And thanks for your clarification. It's just a matter of me understanding the settings. I believe I was quite proficient with my D5300 for the past 6 years and now I have new technology to digest with the D500.
Both of your assistance is greatly appreciated.
A few of my Blue Angel air show shots are posted on the Navy League US Mke website if you wish to take a look.
You guys rock.

Thanks, CO;
I'll do some research and reading.
The D500 is a great body. I will make the best of it.
~~~ Jim P.

Hi CO;
Thanks for the response. The AF issue I have is likely a programming matter and is MY problem .... and not the camera body or lens. I need to read the manual in detail; it is a very overwhelming technologically advanced body compared to the D50, D90, D5300, and friend's D7200 that I have been using for 10+ years. Re the AF issue, I have two lenses: a FX 28-300 (DX effect 42-450) and the DX 16-85. BOTH have been problems for me .... the camera will simply not click. That is probably why the camera store said it was an issue with the body. They are correct, except it is likely not a malfunction problem with the body, just the way I am setting the adjustments. Maybe just need to do some reading and then trial and error taking shots. The problem so far with reading is that frankly I do not understand some of the terminology. Last weekend I used the 28-300 at the Blue Angels Air Show in Milwaukee and half of the time there was no shutter release, and another half the time blurred images. In a 90 minute show I only had about 20 images that were worthwhile. FYI, I purchased the body and both lenses from the same professional camera store (not a big-box) and they have not been very helpful. Thanks for your gracious and helpful comments.