Let me start with a warning. Be aware of purchase from Electronic Basket. When I went to register with zeiss for warranty I was informed that I had a international copy and they wouldn't honor the warranty in the United States.

This lens is dead on! I love everything about it from the impact and water resistance to the incredible pictures it allows me to take. Nothing comes close to it. It is amazing every time. No need to try before buying, just buy it!

Hefty, sharp, easy to use, but hefty. My wife received this for her birthday. She is a floral and garden photographer who needs resolution and focus accuracy. This lens allows her to freeze images and remain steady. For her it is heavy enough to do squats in the Body Pump Class at the Y.