Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG HSM II Macro Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG HSM II Macro Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
The APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG MACRO HSM lens has a large aperture with a minimum focusing distance of 100cm (39.4") throughout the entire zoom range especially for digital SLR cameras with close-up capability. It is very convenient for close-up photography. This lens uses two ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glasses and two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glasses for utmost correction against chromatic aberrations. This lens' super multi layer lens coating reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF. The lens design incorporates an inner focusing and inner zooming systems. The overall length of the lens does not change during focusing and zooming, ensuring convenient handling. Dimensions - Diameter 3.4 x Length 7.3 (86.6x184.4mm) Weight - 48.7 ounces (1,380 grams)

Customer Review: Tack sharp at f4 and above, excellent bokeh

I see that there is a overall 4 star rating on this lens and that seems a little low to me. I bought this about 2 months ago and have used it for several portrait sessions. I have also used the ridiculously priced Nikkor 70-200 VR. I like the look and feel of the Sigma much better and I think the pictures are as good or better than its more pricey cousin. It doesn't have VR, but honestly, you really should be using a tripod if you think you need VR. Good light, and good technique is how photogs have done it for years. I whole heartily give this lens 5 stars!

Customer Review: I like it a lot: great value

I wish I could give it 4.5 stars, because it isn't perfect, but pretty close when considering the price. It is worth every penny I paid. However, it can't compare to the Nikon VR lens (much more $$).
I have used it several times to shoot low light stage productions/dances. Taking hundreds of photos in a night, I haven't had any problems. It does really benefit from a monopod/tripod in these situations. Really, some sort of stabilization is required, so the included tripod mount is a must. Also, the lens is pretty heavy.
I came in to owning a Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF (basically the version before Nikon came out with the VR version) a week after I bought my Sigma. I like some characteristics of the Sigma a little better. The macro feature on the Sigma was superior, and the color was a slightly more true when photos were compared side by side (taken with same camera body).
I wish it had a hard case, the soft case doesn't give me a lot of confidence. Nikon's hard case for their lens is really awesome.
The auto focus worked well, fast, and generally accurate. I occasionally have difficulty tracking an object in low light. But not so much that it gets in the way of shooting. I didn't try the Nikon in this setting so I don't know if it would do the same thing. And I never owned a lens at this focal length before these lenses for comparison.
I am very satisfied, but the whole experience lacks that little bit of polish to make it perfect. Given the present alternatives, I would buy this lens again.