moeronn

I'm planning on going to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks this summer (thread here) and will be renting a long telephoto lens to use on the trip. I'm just not sure which one would be best for my budget (less than $300 for 3 weeks).

Realistically, my choices are:

300 f4 IS
400 f5.6
100-400 f4.5-5.6 IS

I think any of these would be less than $100, plus shipping and insurance, so around $150. I could get two, but I'd rather not be switching between lenses. I also have a Kenko 1.4 (non-reporting) teleconverter to throw on there to extend the reach. Because it is non-reporting, I think AF will still work with at f5.6, though it will be slower.

I'm leaning toward the 100-400 for versatility, but IQ is also important. AF on the primes should also be faster. What would you do?

FWIW, the lens will go on the 7D and I will have either the 10-22 or 17-55 on the 30D.

Dan Martin

Having owned the 300 f/4, I can tell you it's an awesome lens, but I'd probably recommend the 100-400 for that trip. It would pair nicely with the 10-22 and 17-55 while not taking up a lot of space in your backpack.

kcroberge

I have the 100-400 and love the versatility. I am not sure that the AF will work with the Kenko though. I don't have one so I can't verify, only going by things I've read. My second choice would be the 300 f/4. That combined with the Kenko would be a great set up, but you'll do more switching and miss some of the closer stuff.

moeronn

Any more comments or recommendations?

Only four votes, but none for the 400 f5.6.