70-300 IS USM

**Bilbo_baggin** · 2nd July 2007

Might be able to get the 70-300 IS USM if I'm especially nice to the wife.

Is it worth the extra expense compared to the Sigma 70-300 APO lens?

Will be taking it bird watching at RSPB sites in most cases.

Bilbo.

**muttleymacclad** · 3rd July 2007

Hi Bilbo

I was looking at those lenses and very nearly got the sigma but then considered the 70-300 IS USM.

Obviously the key advantage is the IS on this lens, if you're looking to do birding and shooting hand held then you'll need the IS at full range. My only concern is that even the 300mm reach might not give you quite that you need, unless of course you have some extension tubes. However if you're going to be using a tripod then the IS is not so important.

Most birders I know use the 100-400L ( but way too pricey) or even longer prime lenses.

Having said all that, the 100-300mm IS USM was the lens I was looking to get, based on the fact that it is a decent length at an "affordable" price, and it has IS.

I know you will proabably be able to get a work discount but most I get a lot of my gear from Ian Kerr (Kerso), highly recommended on a couple of wildlife forums and POTN also very good value. http://stores.ebay.co.uk/FLASH-CAMERA

MML

**Bilbo_baggin** · 3rd July 2007

Its a tough decision. Due to the cost really.

I could maybe get the Sigma, and a low-price Sigma macro for the same sort of money to open up my shooting options...

Most people in the shops I know keep suggesting save up and go for the Canon 70-200 L f.4 but thats �420 at the cheapest I can find. Saying the shorter length is outwieghed by the quality.

Choices choices...

**peterc4** · 3rd July 2007

i got the 70 300 apo macro and am very happy with it

**BertRoot** · 3rd July 2007

I have a Sigma 70 - 300 apo and am very happy with it. Sadly I have too much shake due to the delerious tremors to make it much use to me at its full extension.

**Bilbo_baggin** · 3rd July 2007

LOL...

I took the plunge and went for the Canon 70-300 IS USM. It's probably my only chance at something this expensive, so took it!

**muttleymacclad** · 3rd July 2007

Good for you Bilbo. Good choice.

Again, I'm thinking the same, if i get the 70-300 IS USM it will probably be longest lens I use and therefore my last lens, therefore I should buy it.

However having just had another child and about to get an extension to the house, i will have to be really nice to the wife to justify the expense. No chance!

MML