Nikon D3300 300mm zoom lens

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KernowChris

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Chris
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You folk must get fed up seeing these type of request posts, but I have searched the forums first and got a general idea of what would make a good lens (I think).

I currently have a Nikon D3300 with the kit 18-55 (non-VR) lens. I wanted a telephoto lens, but was completely bewildered by the choice and options out there so kept abandoning the idea. By chance I happened to pass by my local camera store a month ago and they had a used Nikon 55-200mm (non-VR) lens in the window with non-functioning AF for £20. I thought that would be ideal just to try, however I have found it very difficult to focus and it really needs a tripod (guessing 'VR' might help here) hence I have had very little success with it. One thing it has shown me is that I think 200mm is shorter than I expected.

I have a budget of around £250 and am more than happy with a better quality 'used' lens. I have no experience of any other lenses or brands, which ones to avoid or not.

So, with that in mind I'm looking for a lens around 300mm, whether it be 18-300, 55-300 or 70-300 I don't have a preference unless you more experienced folk can say one way or the other. I don't need a particularly fast lens, speed will be dictated by my budget more than anything.

Looking at what seems to be available, my shortlist so far includes...

Tamron SP 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD

Nikon AF-S 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G VR DX

Nikon AF-S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G IF ED VR

I know some of these will leave me a jump between my existing 55mm and their starting 70mm, I don't know whether that will be an issue for me or not. The Tamron 18-270 seems like a good cover-all-your-ranges lens, but I have know idea really.

Thanks

Chris
 
I have the Tamron 70-300 and I find the VC on it amazing, you can see it lock in the viewfinder, its made a great difference to the amount of keepers I get.
 
For performance vs cost I don't think you can beat the Tamron 70-300 vc
 
+1 for the Tamron. Have owned one previously and am now thinking about getting one again. The price has increased significantly so might be worth waiting to see what the Black Friday deals will bring.

AL
 
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Thanks for the replies. Guess I'll be getting the Tamron then (just ordered used from mpb).
 
It was theVC model wasn't it? Not the older model?

As far as a 70-300 goes you can't go wrong with it mate
 
Well it arrived late yesterday afternoon, it's HUGE! Despite my best efforts I've been unable to try it outside today but will tomorrow.

i presume my camera is strong enough to support it and what if I mount the camera to my tripod, other than balance, are the mounting points suitably strong to avoid damage?

image.jpeg
 
I used to use the Nikon 70-300 VR on a d3100 handheld with no issues so you'll be fine
 
Just to say thanks for the advice, I got to play with the lens at the weekend, the weather was awful but the lens was great and I'm looking forward to getting some great photos with it.

Chris
 
Recently bought a Nikon AF -S 70-300. Nice lens .. Yet to be used. Purchased it for £50.00 with a Jessops UV Filter on EBay.. Did have a go the weekend but forgot to put SD card in my D3100........
 
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