Mon Jul 07, 2008 3:24 am
I had a Sigma 70-200 f2.8 and it had to be calibrated by Sigma 3 times before getting the focus spot on, but it would not track moving subjects properly. After 3 months I gave up on my specific copy and got a Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 VR. This lens delivered perfect focus right out of the box, and focus tracking sticks like glue to the subject, this is expected because of the price you pay for the lens.
My advice is that if you can get a good copy of the Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 lens, then you're set because this lens has it's own motor so in theory it should be quick in focus and tracking, and it has the best bokeh I have experienced. Don't get me wrong, I still like Sigma because I have a wonderful copy of their 24-70 f/2.8 and the 10-20, no re-calibration needed.
If you can't get a good copy of the Sigma lens, you can try the Nikon 80-200 AF-D on your SLR body which is about the same price of the Sigma, but bear in mind that this is a screw driven lens so you may need stronger bodies like the D200 or D2H to drive it, if you are into sports. If they had it in stock when I bought the 70-200, I would have gotten this lens because at sports photography VR is not that useful, your shutter speed would be high enough to counter hand shake.
Whatever lens you get, I hope you will be happy with it and be able to get the images you want.