Cheaper but qualitatively equivalent option to Nikon 500mm f/4.0G ED VR AF-S

Juergen

K

5) Everyone worries about lens reach to get those "close-up safari shots" of the animals. Those shots got boring after the first day... Heck, you could go to the zoo or wildlife sanctuary and get those shots without a 500mm *anything*

That is very interesting, Obajoba. I have never been to a safari. But if close up shots are overrated, how about this option:

somdg has a D600 and a 70-300. Just get a Nikon 1 body and try the 70-300 on it. Maybe that is really all you need. If it does not work satisfactory, just get a used nikkor 300 f2.8, a new Sigma 300 f2.8 or a new nikkor 300 f4.
The Nikon 1 gives you the additional reach for those close-up shots. You have a second body and you are adding a high quality prime lens to your arsenal.

Jürgen