AF-S 24-85mm - your thoughts?

[Antsl]

Hi All

I was wondering if anyone has a Nikkor AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED and if so, what are your thoughts on the lens.

I am thinking of getting it for use with a new FF camera that I might be getting soon. The most common lenses I use are wides and teles and so this focal range is not a priority for me (read this as - I do not really need to carry around a large 24-70mm f2.8 if I can help it and I can also save myself $2000). Thoughts and considerations most welcome!

Cheers for now,
Ants

[Yi-P]

I am thinking of getting it for use with a new FF camera that I might be getting soon.

Wouldn't 2 characters "D3" would explain that all???

Have you considered the 24-120mm VR? Bit more versatile for the FF and it has VR. I know Gary has one and its not bad for its money and quality. Fits just right on a FF and not so on DX...

[Antsl]

Hi Yi-P

Yes.... I have got me a D3 on the way... it is such a useful camera for the low light photography that I do that I really have to have one. As the camera is quite a bit heavier than my current D200 and because it is going to have at least a three stop advantage I am thinking I will get a smaller mid range lens to save some weight.

For the moment I have been using a Sigma 24-70 f2.8 but I find it to be rather bulky and heavy, (no doubt no more bulkier than Nikons equivalent lenses). Because the D3 is full frame my usual favourite lenses... the 20-35 and the 80-200 are going to be back in their usual slots and I do not need a mid range zoom to cover the short telephoto range (the 55-80 range). I also often work with just a belt pack and a mix of lenses and so sometimes small is an advangtage.

I have had a look at Nikons range at the moment and figured the 24-85 was the best comprise of weight and zoom range. I would not go for the 24-120 VR, in part because I do not need VR but also because I prefer shorter zoom factors (more chance they will get everything right).

Still keen to hear from some users!
Cheers, Ants

[Yi-P]

You might want to have a look at this first? (If you haven't done so)

http://www.bythom.com/2485lens.htm

Sorry I cant say anything about this lens because I haven't even seen one around yet...