Older glass but GREAT glass

This review is for the “Push pull” "D" version of the lens not the newer two ring version (The picture above is the one I am reviewing). I have to recommend this lens to any serious photographer who wants a versatile zoom lens without giving up much performance from primes (Fixed focal length lenses). The lens is amazingly sharp and consistently provides me with great photos. The lens is perfect for portrait work due to its focal lengths and its wide 2.8 aperture. The consumer zooms just can not provide the same results because they are usually at f5.6 when wide open at longer focal lengths. This is fine if you want the subject and background in focus by using smaller f-stops or when working with lots of light. Where the consumer zooms fall short is when you want your subject, and nothing else, in focus or when you want a low light shot. I have taken advantage of these extra stops repeatedly and would have missed many shots if they were not there.

The push pull has a design slightly different from the newer zoom lenses. Instead of twisting the zoom ring to zoom, you pull it toward you or push it away. This is a good thing and a bad thing depending on what you want to do. The good is that it zooms quickly and accurately. It also gives the advantage of being able to zoom and manually focus at the same time without moving your hand. This is obviously only an advantage to those who use manual focus. The drawback is that if you point the lens to the ground you get zoom creep. Zoom creep is when the weight of the glass in the lens pulls the lens out and changes the focal length (Makes the lens zoom out when it is not wanted). This is not a big problem when hand holding the lens. It can be a problem in the somewhat rare situation when you have the lens mounted on a tripod pointing straight down.

The auto focus is not the fastest or the quietest thing in the world but it does a good job, especially for those who have not used HSM (AF-S), or USM lenses. The biggest drawback to this lens is the fact that there is no tripod mount on the lens. The lens if BIG and HEAVY and really needs a tripod mount to be effectively mounted. I have mounted it many times but I have to say that I would not recommend it highly especially with the lower end bodies.

The newer version (two ring / two touch) version adds a tripod mount and faster focus. The HSM version adds a detachable tripod mount and lightning quick focus. Both versions add price! I picked up my lens used in immaculate condition from a reputable used shop for $600. The two ring version sells new for about $1000 at B&H Photo (www.bhphoto.com – Highly recommended!). The HSM(AF-S) version sells for about $1400 at B&H. These new prices may not be much to the professional but they are a bit steep for the serious amateur. That is why I chose to buy used. I have a smaller lighter “Consumer grade” zoom but I never use it anymore. The extra heft is worth it for the superior optics and faster lens. If you can afford the newer version then I would get one, if not then buy used. You will be pleased with the extra stops and performance a “pro” lens has to offer.

I rate this lens with 5 stars due to its amazing optical performance. I would rate it a 4 for the other drawbacks.