Nikon Nikkor VR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Lens

This Nikkor zoom is a lens that I would not want to live without. As with my other Nikkor lenses the value and quality are more apparent today than ever before.
Believe me when I say that I looked at this purchase very carefully. Not a day goes by that I am not glad I made the decision to purchase this lens.
For me the range has proven to be essential in capturing wildlife and particulary useful when covering sports.
What I like in particular are the range, quality, performance, size, weight and cost. The accessories including soft case, tripod mount, shade and packaging are first rate!
This lens works very well hooked to my D200!
My experience with the auto focus is that performance is much better than some other reviews would lead you to believe. Getting familiar with the various auto function options available via today's DSLR's have increased the performance I get from this lens.
Listen... a faster aperture would be great and so would AF-S but the reality is that Nikon does offer those feautures in other lenses. The size and cost also reflect the cost of such features and may well be worth it to some photographers.
That being said I wouldn't trade my 80-400mm AF-D ED VR for anything.
Talk to those who have owned one and used it extensively and better yet take a look at the images they produce with this lens.
My position after less than a year is that this lens is an exceptional value!
The more I use it the more I appreciate the build quality and performance aspects.
Size and weight feel very balanced and purposeful in my hand.
One last thing is that using Nikkor lenses with Nikon cameras and system offer too many benefits to properly cover here. At least that is my experience!
Good luck!