On 25 Nov 1998 00:28:31 GMT, gdoces@aol.com (Gdoces) wrote:

>I am trying to decide whether I should buy the newer 70-300 AF Nikkor or the
>older 75-300 version. I know the basic differences regarding size, weight,
>etc. The question that I need answered is which of the two will perform better
>optically. Also, I have the opportunity to buy a used 80-200, f/2.8 AF Nikkor
>ED (the first version of this model lens) for around $400-500. Again,
>optically speaking, would I be better off with the older used 80-200 or the new
>70-300. If I choose the 80-200 I will have to buy a tripod mounting collar.
>The 70-300 does not need one because it is much lighter and smaller. Anyway,
>any thoughts?? 80-200, 75-300 or 70-300?

The other posters have covered this pretty well, but I will add
that the 80-200 f2.8 + TC14/14B/14C will get you almost to 300mm,
and the combination is sharper at equivalent effective f-stops
than either of the other zooms you mentioned alone (or even the
better 100-300mm f5.6 Nikkor). Grab the 80-200 quick! ;-)
BTW, of the two other zooms you mentioned, I preferred the
older 75-300 at wider stops...