Seeking telephoto lens advice

[JeffArt]

Can anyone offer advice, criticism, comments, anecdotes about midsize telephoto lenses. I shoot with a Nikon D80. I am considering three lenses:
1. Nikkor 70-300 AF/VR f4.5-5.6 $479
2. Tamron 70-300 AF f4-5.6 $180
3. Sigma 70-300 AF f4-5.6 $219
Must I have VR, vibration reduction?
Is the additional money for the Nikkor worth it inthe plong run?
Thanks.
JA

[mhayes]

Jeff,

I have the Nikkor and really like it. I've seen some reviews noting that it is soft at the long end but the lesser priced lenses you mentioned would probably be just as soft if not more so.

The lens is relatively light, quick to focus and the VR is definitely worth a couple of stops handheld. Build quality is solid.

If you shoot much handheld I would strongly recommend the Nikkor - just remember to turn off the VR when using a tripod as it does have a negative effect.

I'm taking mine out this weekend looking for bald eagles.

Mark

[JeffArt]

Mark,
Thanks much for your review. I realize now that the cost difference between the Nikkor and lower priced lenses is minimal when considering how long I'll keep the lens. We don't have bald eagles here in Eastern Long Island, the Hamptons, but we do have lots of celebrity birds and, more importantly, some beautiful beach and ocean landscapes.
Thanks again.
Jeff