I bought and shot this lens for 2 weeks in Europe this December of 2015, going after airplanes, trains and birds. I left my 300 2.8 at home because it's slightly smaller in my carry-on and more versatile zoom-wise. Optically very good but not as sharp as my 300.

After using 3rd party lenses for a long time, I made the decision to switch over to this lens. And boy, ain't I glad I made the switch? There is a vast difference in the image quality.The f 5.6 is a just apt for making beautiful images at a long end 500 mm.

This lens takes very clear, spectacular pictures. I was amazed at the picture quality. The lens is also surprisingly very fast. I was a bit reluctant at first, but once I got it and played with it a bit, I was happy to have made this purchase. The lens is a bit heavy, but for a good reason.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Nice Bokeh; Rugged; Strong Construction

Very good lens from Nikon. Affordable for wildlife photography. Optical quality is very-very good. VR is the best I've had on any Nikkor. Focusing speed is fine but not a race engine. All in all a home run from Nikon.

This lens exceeded my expectations in image stabilisation and sharpness. I use it on a D750 & a D3s. the stabilisation is fantastic. better than any of the lens I currently own. it is not heavy for a lens of this type. the only negatives are. A proper lens case is not supplied only a dust pouch.

Bought this as a gift for my wife who is a Professional. She had heard about it at a recent presentation on an Arctic expedition. So far so good. Nice to have 500mm on your D610 FX. It was a dream lens for her! A little heavy, but with all that glass, it can be expected!

We had the first over the counter 500mm f5.6 PF from Wex. My wife and I had a "play" with lens in the showroom, then ordered a second one there and then, so we could have one each. Now after 2 weeks use by both of us we can't wait for next one.

Ease of use; Great Picture Quality; Lightweight

Honestly best telephoto lens I've ever used. Sharp image and f5.6 in all range is the best you can get for that price!!

This isn't as fast as a prime lens, but for the money, it's great! It is big and heavy, and you'll need muscle to tote this around. It works good handheld in bright light. If using a tripod, make sure you have a really sturdy tripod and I'd reccomend a gimbal head.

The AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6 E ED lens is an FX format powerful telephoto zoom, ideally aimed at sports and wildlife photographers. It has a constant but modest f/5.6 maximum aperture, which enables a fairly compact design for its focal length.