Yes. Works as well as the Nikon OEM grip is advertised at a significantly lower cost.

I purchased a Vello BG-N19-2 Battery Grip for Nikon D850 ($75) 3 years ago along with a Wasabi Power Battery for Nikon EN-EL18 ($46), Wasabi Power Dual Battery Charger for Nikon EN-EL18 ($63), DSTE Replacement for BL-5 Battery Chamber Cover Compatible Nikon D800 D800E D810 D500 D850 EN-EL18 Li-ion Battery ($10). Total outlay $194. Couldn’t be happier. Works great and was so pleased I bought a Vello grip, chamber cover and another Wasabi battery for my D500.

For what it’s worth, I have an XP-960 and have been using it for about 3 years with no problems. It’s been a great printer. I have found it to be very accurate, versatile and easy to use.

I have Vello grips for both my D850 and my D500. Have had them for about 2 years and they work great.

I second Thomas902’s suggestion. My Nikon D500 and my Nikkor 105mm f/2.8 Micro were refurbished from Nikon. I also bought my Sigma 14mm f/1.8 refurbished from Sigma. All were like new and I’ve been extremely pleased with them.

I did purchase my Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6 new, but that was shortly after its release. If I was buying it today, I would definitely buy refurbished. BTW, one of the deciding factors in my selecting the Nikkor over the Sigma Sport or the Tamron was the constant 5.6 aperture throughout the entire zoom range.

Best of luck whichever you decide upon.

I continue to see posts decrying slow delivery by Amazon, but over the last 3 months I have placed 12 orders from Amazon and all have been delivered within 2-3 days. These orders have included such items as a Le Creuset skillet, a Wasabi battery for Nikon EN-EL-18 for my D500, books, clothes, XQD/SD card reader, resistance bands, pizza pan and more, so I don’t think it depends on what you are ordering. I live in South Central PA so maybe that is a factor. One of the items did not meet my expectations so returned it. Had the refund applied to my account the next day. Bottom line I personally have no qualms about ordering from Amazon. Their delivery and service, at least for me, continue to be excellent.

I can tell you from experience, the 70-300 is not wide enough nor long enough for what you will encounter in Alaska. I’m not familiar with the P1000 so I don’t know how inferior the IQ is compared to the D7500, but the zoom capabilities would certainly be tremendously beneficial. Someone on this thread mentioned acquiring a Tamron 18-400, which I would very much endorse as it will cover probably 90% of your needs, but even that will be too short at times. Good luck with whatever you decide and have an awesome trip.

Since you are renting, you might want to consider the Sigma 14mm f1.8. I love mine even if it is heavy and expensive if purchased. I got mine refurbished from Sigma. Very pleased with it. Good luck.

I second Gene51’s recommendation for the Manfrotto 393. I’ve been using it for about 3 years and have been very pleased with it. Very simple to set up and use and as Gene51 said, no maintenance needed.

I also find that the vast majority of my shooting with my Nikkor 200-500 on either my D500 or D850 is done hand-held. I find it to be more flexible with better freedom of movement/tracking.

Good luck with your search!

My feelings exactly!!!

sm24: Just bought one from B&H and finished setting it up with all my cameras and lenses yesterday. Much better than the Vanguard bag I was using, plus it’s large enough to also house much of the miscellaneous gear, (tripod heads, flash, Extra batteries, chargers, etc.).

Mine has been building for several months for a wide angle lens. Couldn’t decide between a zoom or prime. Finally gave in last week and got a refurbished Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art from Sigma’s outlet department. Came in original box and with all original accessories, looks brand new. Super sharp, but also very heavy. So far, I’m loving it!

I also use the Manfrotto 393 and I agree it works like a charm. I’ve used it with my Nikkor 200-500 on both my D500 and my D850. Have been very pleased with it.

Getting a “Real ID” designation on your driver license is an option, at least it is in PA. You only need it if you are planning to board an airplane or gain access to certain government facilities. You may instead use your passport and save yourself the hassle, time and money to get a “Real ID”.