Great Value for the Money

I previously owned a Sigma 70-300mm (w/macro) from around 2001 and was disappointed by the sharpness especially at the long end of the zoom. I am a "enthusiast" level user and shoot normal everyday subjects (birds in my back yard, kids' sporting events, etc. Therefore, I was looking for a long zoom especially for outdoor use. Based on sample images I had seen from other users, I chose to update to this lens.

This version with APO is a significant improvement and displays very sharp image characteristics throughout the zoom range. Also, the macro mode can be engaged between 200mm and 300mm (vs. only a 300mm in the older version). It has a solid feel and the zoom control is smooth but firm (i.e. no drifting of zoom). I have used this lens to photograph birds (distant) as well as flowers (close-ups) and am impressed by the sharpness and color characteristics. An oversized lens hood gives plenty of protection from any possible flare. The lens hood is wide enough to operate a polarizing filter.

I recommend the use of a tripod or monopod especially at the upper range of the zoom in order to avoid camera shake. A tripod mount on the lens would have been a definite plus for this lens. At maximum zoom, with the lens fully extended, the center of gravity tends to make the camera/lens a bit front heavy. A lens tripod mount would provide better balance. I also like the robust lens case that is shipped with lens (durable exterior with a foam interior): should provide good cushioning.

Coupled with my Pentax *ist DL, this is a great piece of glass for the money. Additionally, with the 1.5 multiplier of the DL, this lens actually achieves a max zoom of 450 mm. At approx $225, it is an economical alternative to prime lenses which can run in to the thousand dollar range.