I agree . I have both , but the 200-500mm is a monster.
I have used my nikon 80-400mm on several trips to Botswana. I think because it's somewhat compact size in relation to it's focal length it is a great lens for your trip.
Brings back a lot of memories.I worked at Prospect Creek.
Messing around with new camera. I was using a nikon 200-500mm and also cropped photos to see how they held up.
Ya it magnifies all your mistakes
First shot with D850 photo was cropped
They don't change the function or degrade anything. Why would Nikon sell them? I have used them on every camera I have owned with"O" problems.
Why take the chance,screen savers are dirt cheap compared to possibly having to send it in for repair or replacement. Do the smart thing and buy a screen saver...
Try amazon. I purchased one before I got my D850
Young Gambel's Quail lining up for a drink on a hot Arizona day.