Agree with you Lone Ranger. Missed my D300, so not wanting to wait for the D400, if and when, bought the D7100. Surprised at the weight, felt like half of the D300, and smaller. But guess, better things come in smaller packages--so they say. Good luck Donnahde.

Back in the 50's, while in the Navy I purchased a Voightlander Prominent with the Nokton 1.5 lens. That to me, at the time, was a beautiful camera and wish I had it today.

If these lenses sit around for any given time, without being used, that's what normally happens. Lubrication must harden up or otherwise not be where its suppose to be on the motor. Happened to my 80-200. Nikon repaired it for $200. Quiet as a church mouse-
NOTE- Sorry, KEH made the repair, not Nikon.

Have seen a few folks asking about handles for their gear.
Attached are a couple of photos of one that I have used for years with my many cameras. My original was from Vivitar, this recent one was from Sunset, but have seen them also from Stitz. They are rugged and weight about 15 oz. Also has a flash shoe attached. Purchased them both from eBay.

Seeing more questionable postings on Nikon's new D7200 and D9300.
Any validity on these two scuttlebutts? Perhaps some are wishful thinking, but then again--one would think it was time the 7100 and 300 were updated.
Merry Christmas to all here on this great site.

Last week, 93 HT was $3.02 at Sam's Club in Elgin, IL

Thanks again-all very good, personal comments; just what the doctor ordered. I did consider the D7100 but with the recent rumors of an updated replacement (D7200/92/9300) decided to wait another month or so. And also the D750, but a tad out of my price range. Been there-done that many eons ago. Have time to mill all your comments and make a final decision. Its a shame that the 'ol local type camera shops are no longer in existence. Visiting them with item in hand was fantastic. Only one here, is Best Buy and they don't seem to stock the higher grade camera's.

Thanks for your additional comment as well, Peekayoh, much appreciated, especially from "over there". Like your light ring. All have a fantastic Merry Christmas and the Happiest and most Prosperous New Year.

Many thanks for those who posted their comments. Will take all in consideration should I go back to Nikon, or take the Sony approach. At my age, price has become a concern so DX is also of interest over the many FX lenses I had with the D300. Biggest mistake was selling the 24-70, 2.8, my all time favorite. Thanks again guys; more to ponder.

Have been a Nikon guy for the past 60+ years and recently sold all to make a move out-of state. Last used was the D300. Now, wishing to get back into photography, been doing some brand comparisons. Nikon/Canon and recently, articles on Sony products, which has stemmed much of my interest. I have been looking at the A7 series and obviously, confused as ever between the 3 types: A7, A7II and the A77ii. Somewhat bypassing the "R" & "S" versions due to cost. My realm of photography has mainly been landscapes, nature and the likes. No doubt this will be my last and final purchase, so we keep telling ourselves.
Any suggestions would be most appreciative and keep this publication going. It has been the first e-mail I open every morning. Many thanks. :thumbup:

I'll throw this in for what its worth. Although I agree, a tad big and heavy, the 28-70 f2.8 AF-S D was by far the lens that generally was a permanent fix on my D300. However, as stated, the size and weight might be a factor for some, therefore perhaps the 3.5-4.5 would suffice.