Best sports and nature lens

"I have to say, out of all the gear and lenses I have used for my sports and nature photography, this lens has blown my mind. The auto focus is super fast. I love that I can pull focus on a subject very quickly. The lens is very durable and feels very good in the hand.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II Review

The price tag of Nikon's AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens ($6,999.95) may shock you, but it's actually quite reasonable when you consider its telephoto reach, superior optics, and rugged construction. And it looks like an even better deal when compared with Canon's similar EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x ($10,999), although that lens does benefit from an integrated teleconverter, a feature that the Nikkor lacks. If you're a Nikon shooter and in want of a long zoom lens that can let you keep your camera's shutter speed high and ISO low in a variety of lighting conditions, the 200-400mm is a solid choice. It's not quite an Editors' Choice winner; the slower, but longer reaching Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary ($899.00 at Amazon) remains our top pick, due in no small part to its lighter weight and friendlier price. Design and ControlsThe Nikkor 200-400mm ( at Amazon)  is not a small lens. It measures 14.4 by 4.9 inches (HD) and weighs in at 7.4 pounds. ...

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II is a hefty, expensive lens, but its telephoto reach and wide aperture make it a great choice for wildlife and sports photography.

Very sharp; Long telephoto reach; Maximum f/4 aperture throughout zoom range; Vibration reduction system; Internal zoom design; Includes carrying case, dedicated strap, and tripod collar

Huge, heavy, and expensive; A little edge softness at 400mm