macro

One of the best on the market. Even using a 2x adapter to get 1000mm. It is big and not too heavy and has a tripod collar ring for added stability.

Received lens as a gift, was thinking of buying myself. Was impressed with the looks of this monster,looks very expensive to unfamiliar folks. I use this lens on my Canon Elan 7e and from the start had a problem that I wasnt informed of when bought by friend. Problem was that certain Sigma lenses don't work properly with the new Canon camera. After some research, i found I had to ship my lens to New York Sigma factory for a free upgrade, A+. received lens in a few weeks and problem was solved. Other problem was the tripod collar is in bad spot for use with some Bogan tripod heads. the head must be used sidewards to be used with the lens. Not a big problem but a problem. Next problem is that when carrying camera with lens attached and pointing downward, the lens slides to the fully extended position and could get damaged by banging into things when not noticed right away. Other than that I like the lens. Its definitely not a pro lens but it will serve the advanced amateur well.

This is a moderately priced alternative telephoto lens. Althought quite bulky, lens are not heavy, and they fit perfectly well in my LowePro Min-Trekker backpack.

Lens are not fast enought to take pictures without a tripod in less then bright light conditions, however, if you can afford a longer exposure times and tripod, you can get good results. Not suited for sports or fast animal photography, but if you want zoom into the landscape, architecture or people, here is a perfectly fine lens...There is really no good alternative lens if you need a range of 170-500 mm.