MikeFromMT Loc: So Cal & MT

This is my first question being posted to UHH, and knowing what I do, the final decision will come down to me but here goes. All input is appreciated. I shoot dual platform, both Canon (7D, 6D, SL1) and Nikon (D600). I got the Nikon because I wanted to try FF and it was reasonably priced when I got it. For lenses (and I am only looking at long reach right now) I have a standard Canon 70-300, a 100-400 f4 L and for the Nikon I have the AF-s 70-300 4.5-5.6G. I am looking to go further. First for the Nikon (which is a secondary camera). The Sigma 150-500 is right now at a great price. Will this give me enough boost in distance (over the 70-300) or should I wait for the elusive Tamron 100-600 for Nikon that all are lusting for to be released. Next for the Canon. The 100-400 L is a great lens, but again is the reach. I have used a 2X converted on it and the 70-300 but the results are of course not as crisp as the lens itself. Given that, and again my lust for distance I am again looking at the Tamron 100-600 for the extra range. Will it be a big enough improvement over the Canon 100-400. Yes, I know, I have a fatal case of GAS. Again, all comments appreciated.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

The Tamron has been released for Nikon. I don't know about the supply that is available, but they are no longer on pre-order.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Mike, what little I know, and none from personal experience.
When I used to read a lot of bird forums, the concensous seemed to be that the 100-400 was better than the Sigma. I'm sure I'm stepping on some feet here. The complaints were that the sigma was short, maybe around 450mm, so the reach wasn't that much more and after 400 it go noticiblely soft. So most used the Canon.
But, that was before the Tammy came out.
The good thing is the Tammy seems to be a true 600mm. As for sharpness, I have not read the bird forums since it came out.
The question becomes, is it sharper, or at least the same as the 100-400+1.4?
With 1.4, the pins need to be taped, or use a third party extender.
I think at least some of the focus issues of the Tammy, is that at 6.3, it's beyond the focus limits of the old 7d bodies, so it may always have to be in good light(always better anyway), but that's a guess. Again, I've used only the 100-400, and WITHIN its limits, it's a VERY nice lens.
Good luck. ;-)
SS

Bret Loc: Dayton Ohio

If I where in the market for one of these big lenses I think I'd have go for the big Sig and here's why.
1. Its been out for some time now and has proven to be a very nice piece of equipment.
2. Its on the shelve now...none of this pre order waiting list release date mumbo jumbo stuff.
3. The price difference alone you could easily get a good quality UV or CPL for it and be done with it.

taffthetooth Loc: U.K

You may want to watch this, and if I remember I think he says it's softer between 500-600mm. http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=tony+northrup+tamron+150-600+

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Nice video. I'm amazed at how big that lens is. Seeing it on Amazon, it's just another lens. When it's on a camera with someone holding it, you see how large it really is.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Jerry, it IS a 600.
The saving grace, it's only an f6.3, otherwise, it would be heavy as well!! :lol:
SS

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I guess an F/2.8 would be out of the question. :D

Alois

The prime lenses will always shine over zooms, 150-500 Sigma is not so hot at the long end, I have no experience with Tamron
Canon 400 5.6 is quite nice. All these lenses are under $ 1500.
I hace Nikon 300 4.0 and with cropping I still get spectacular images.

Jackdoor Loc: Huddersfield, Yorkshire.

This is about psychology, not lenses- which you knew already! If you get the Sigma 150-500, you will regret it as soon as the Tamron becomes widely available. You'll want the Tamron anyway, and the price of the Sigma will nosedive. Just depends how much of a hurry you're in and what your budget is... I'm not being a smartass- I'm in the same situation myself!

Alois

From my own experience, Sigma is almost impossible to resell.