With a long zoom range at a tempting price, Nikon's AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens could be outstanding. Phil Hall tries it out on a wildlife photography trip

I really can't recall the last time I became so emotionally involved with a lens. This affordable Nikkor telephoto zoom is sharp, easy to hold, and at under $1400 you simply cannot go wrong. If I sound excited, I am!

Wherever your passion lies, this outstanding super telephoto zoom lens can bring it into focus. Capture and share stunning views of birds, wildlife, motorsports, athletes, performers, landmarks and other faraway subjects.

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

This lens will become a classic, if it\'s not already so! The most bang for you buck for a Nikon branded lens of this focal range, out of this world VR, very useful range, not too heavy, very good build quality, f/5.6 is quite useful and a good compromise. What else could you hope for.

Locks only at 200mm, and the locking system is fragile; Make sure you are at 200mm before atempting to lock it, otherwise you risk breaking the internal locking system, which probably is just a little piece of plastic; Also, don\'t try to extend the zoom if it\'s locked for the same reason.

Very easy to handle, light for such a range and usefulness; Pretty fast for a lens of this price; VR is pretty outstanding, never used a Nikkor with such an efficient VR system; Photos handheld at 500mm and 1/30s become a reality, yes, read that again...

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 Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is no ordinary prime as Michael Topham found out at the home of cricket