Tamron 24-75 f2.8 heft

I've used the Tamron 28-75 2.8 for years and like it. I'd be very interested in the new image stabilized model, which presumably also brings along optical and build quality improvements. The new lens is a good bit more expensive but not unreasonable for a premium product. However, it's also 60% heavier, and for me that's a problem for a walk-around midrange zoom.

Why does quality gear need to be so heavy? Don't lightweight materials exist that are durable and can be weather sealed? I think many photographers would pay a premium for lightweight durability, but suspect that manufacturers long ago decided that a hefty product more easily lends itself to a hefty price tag.

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Joe Melillo
WSSA member# 86
http://www.pbase.com/jmelillo/root