"...It seems like this focal range would benefit from a fast lens?"
You're joking right? The general rule for shutter speed to minimize camera movement is 1/focus length...
i.e. for a 300mm f/2.8 you're looking at at least 1/500 second.
For a 20mm optic? You're looking at maybe 1/25 second.
Get real Alphabravo, if you can't hand hold a 20mm f/2.8 at normal illumination scenarios?
As for DOF, when was the last time you studied a DOF chart for a 20mm optic?
https://www.dofmaster.com/dofjs.htmlFor a 20mm lens at Subject distance 10 ft
Depth of field
Near limit 7.11 ft
Far limit 16.9 ft
Total 9.75 ft
In front of subject 2.89 ft (30%)
Behind subject 6.86 ft (70%)
Hyperfocal distance 24.5 ft
Virtually ZERO subject isolation! So what's the point Alphabravo?
Besides you state your "Workhorse" optic is the AF 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6 Nikkor.
The distortion at 18mm on that consumer grade optic is horrific.
Best Advice shoot the Tokina AF 11-16mm f/2.8 VR DX lens.
And deal with it...
You can pick it up Used in "Mint" condition at B&H for $269.95
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/802535571-USE/tokina_atx116prodxn_11_16mm_f_2_8_at_x_116.htmlHope this helps Alphabravo...
All the best on your epic photographic journey
"...It seems like this focal range would bene... (