----- Original Message -----
From: Carlo Terlizzi <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> I've also been tempted to purchase this lens to (1) complement my 28-135
IS
> and (2) at times replace my 70-200/2.8L and 1.4X/2.0X in my backpack.
Carlo; the 100-400 is an excellent lens and clearly one worth having
especially if you enjoy shooting outdoors. I primarily use it for wildlife
but have also used it with nice results for landscapes and even portraits.
However, it really isn't a replacement for your 70-200--the two lenses have,
I've found, different applications. An 'apples and oranges' thing.
> (1) I *hate* the push-pull design. I know that some folks prefer one
touch
> to two touch zoom design, however I am the reverse. I do not feel that
the
> 'feel', 'quickness' and 'accuracy' of zooming is as good with the 100-400
when
> compared to my 70-200.
I didn't like the push-pull design at first either. But I have after lots
of use, gotten use to it and find it acceptably quick in zooming/framing
shots but it does take some practice. I have even gotten good at in-flight
bird shots and will zoom out to about 200mms to find the bird and then to
400mm or so to frame the picture. Actually, in this application, it's
probably better than a zoom that you have to twist or rotate. Thankfully I
don't live in an inherently dusty region as the only down-side now for me
with the push-pull design, is it's tendency to suck in particles. I believe
List member Thys Van der Merwe in South Africa mentioned he had trouble in
this regard.
I also like to move a lot so don't use a tripod or monopod most of the time,
depending instead on the 100-400's IS to help steady shots. It's a great
feature and has given me some excellent results when I actually shouldn't
have gotten them, and probably wouldn't have with another lens.
The 100-400 is not the 'perfect' lens but I'm really sold on it for it's
features and that it seems to perform so well for me. Those interested may
also want to check Art Morris' site to see what his (revised) comments are
on the 100-400, those are at www.birdsasart.com/b13.html
Gary Russell
Olympia, Washington - USA
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