Sigma 170-500mm 170-500 APO DG ASP lens

[x5x3]

does anyone on here have one of these and/or any thoughts/opinions?

thanks in advance.

[beano500]

Well, I have an opinion.

This one always sounds good on paper - especially a nice, useful-looking range. Also the design has been around for a few years. Now I'm not one to dismiss a lens design because it's been around a while - one of the favourite lenses in my kit dates back to a 1969 design (45mm f2.8 manual focus lens based upon an older design) - but when it comes to zoom lenses, well I don't see how they can be that good.

That's OK depending upon what your priorities are - I think the 170-500 looks reasonable value for money, but I don't think it's that good.

At the other end of the scale I picked up a Sigma 14mm. Build quality is quite good; optically, the results are a bit average. I have known other people with issues with Sigma - such as compatibility when it comes to focusing. Bottom line is I don't feel the need to rush out and buy another Sigma.

There's my 2d!

[MonkeyHanger]

beano500 said:

At the other end of the scale I picked up a Sigma 14mm. Build quality is quite good; optically, the results are a bit average. I have known other people with issues with Sigma - such as compatibility when it comes to focusing. Bottom line is I don't feel the need to rush out and buy another Sigma.

Focus compatibilty issues? Never had them with my 15-30, 70-200 f2.8 or the 120-300. Older Sigma lenses had a problem with Canon digital bodies but it was nothing to do with AF problems and would only be an issue if the lens was an old one.

That said, the 170-500 is average at best. I'd save a bit more cash and buy something better.

[x5x3]

thanks all, there are only limited options at the 500mm end, maybe a lower top end and a converter?

[MonkeyHanger]

x5x3 said:

thanks all, there are only limited options at the 500mm end, maybe a lower top end and a converter?

What's your budget?

[x5x3]

no real budget in mind, my criteria for buying is usually quality over price, I am currently learning with a 400d (and Canon 10-22, 17-85 and 75-300 lenses) but may change once I become a bit more proficient.

[ThatPhilBrettGuy]

You need to try out a 500mm lens first. I've got the Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 and have used it with a 2x converter. Picture quality is fine, but to run into all sorts of issues out at 600mm....

If it's the slightest bit dark you're into mirror lockup games and big tripods. With a good tripod sat on my decking, I could see my heartbeat through the viewfinder, and I wasn't touching the camera. It was the deck bouncing!