I've just completed my full field test of this lens. Here's the "Executive Summary": The AF-S 80-400mm f4.5-5.6 VR is a significant and worthwhile upgrade from its predecessor. It's an incredibly versatile lens that will meet most of the needs for many, many nature and wildlife photographers.

Solid optical quality throughout the entire focal range; very "hand-holdable&quot

Just acceptable build quality; horrendous tripod collar; poorly designed hood

For a 5x zoom, the AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is an excellent performer. Centre sharpness is very good to excellent at all apertures throughout the zoom range, with the borders also being impressively sharp at most zoom settings.

As the Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR's £2500 list price suggests, there is a lot of technology packed into Nikon's latest telephoto zoom. With 20 elements (including four with ED glass and one with Super-ED glass), AF-S focussing, four-stop VR and technical test results that are consistently...

5x zoom range; Sophisticated VR system; High MTF results; Fringe-free images; Reliable AF system; Focus limiter; Weatherproof design; Tripod mounting collar

Rather heavy; Costly

The Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a versatile and feature-packed premium-quality telephoto zoom

5x zoom range; Sophisticated VR system; High MTF results; Fringe-free images; Reliable AF system; Focus limiter; Weatherproof design; Tripod mounting collar

Rather heavy; Costly

I ordered the new Nikon AF-S 80-400mm lens from Smifu late on Wednesday, and it was delivered the following Monday morning. Mark from Smifu in Brisbane was so very pleasant and helpful, both on the phone and via emails. I have already recommended Smifu to some of my photography friends.

After reading previous reviews giving it a 10, it was a great disappointment. Bad copy Maybe, but I am not going to try another one to find out. Sent it back for a refund.My Nikon 200-500 was sharper and had better AF. My 300 f4 PF with a 1.4x TC on it is sharper and has better AF.

Solid build; 80-100mm is handy

Not that sharp and AF not impressive And even though it is supposed to be normal; the obvious chattering sound it makes when changing focus is annoying and stupid that Nikon can't make this zoom lens without the chattering

Used to see these kinds of lenses as sort of amateurish. Got one from NPS a few months to give it a try on a golf tournament. Wow! Loved it. So sharp, fast focusing and easy to carry. The fact that it's so lightweight compared to a 400 2.8 or 200-400 makes it so much easier on the body.

WOW ! I have been waiting YEARS for this lens.... Having owned the older "D" version 80-400mm for many years, this is what I have been waiting for. The older version was a great piece of glass except for the slow focus. Now that the lens has it`s own focus motor it is super fast and accurate.

I just got the Nikon D7100 camera and wanted a telephoto lens to photograph wildlife. This new 80-400mm lens has been everything I wanted. Easy to use and focus providing super photos. Highly recommended.

I love this lens. I used to own a Sony A7R when they first came out. Great camera and ideal for my situation... I could take it climbing with me as it was so light....Due to a house burglary I lost it and my wife replaced it with a Nikon D5300. I know; fairly low end.

Consistent Output; Durable; Quick Focus; Sharp Focus; Strong Construction

Heavy