Original 600mm F4 (non-IS)

tetsumo wrote:

dgumshu wrote:

lonewolf1983 wrote:

After transitoning from Nikon i'm now reviewing my options for long-tele's (have a 300mm ISii) in the 500-600mm range.
A well priced original 600mm non-IS has popped up and wondered how this lens stacks up vs its more modern bretheren.
I'm aware its heavy (I only cart it from the carpark to sidelines and take the 300mm if weight is an issue) and that parts may not be available should i need to repair it.
Dont need IS as primarily shooting fast shutter for sports.
How is AF speed and IQ?
Will be paired with a 1dx/R6 combo

I would pass on that lens. It’s too heavy/large and will sit in your closet most of the time. I had the IS version and it did not do well with extenders. I currently have the 600 F4 ll and it’s still a tripod lens and does not work well for flying in smaller jets or prop planes. If you can afford it, the 600 lll is very light weight.

If you’re looking to buy used, I’d take a good hard look at the 500mm F4 ll. It was the best lens I ever owned. It’s easy to transport, still hand holdable with superb IQ.
Another excellent lens is the 400 DO ll with extender... which gets you further out than you 300mm.

I´m a small guy (around 116lbs) and I really want the 600mm f4 II for birding and wildlife, still researching for a used one (can´t afford a new one). How big are you?

I'm 180 at 5_10, but 70 yrs old and I'm still lugging my heavy stuff, but unloaded the 600 F4.  Recently purchased an OM-1 with 300 F4 and TC for 840mm equivalent.  Never thought I'd try M43, but I've been pleasantly surprised with it... not much time recently, but hopefully soon.  However, I still used the 500 F4, the 100-500 and DSLR's along with mirrorless ++.