Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS for Nikon

I had the Nikon version of this lens...I loved it! It is (was) a bit faster. Unfortunately I came to that point where I really needed some pro quality glass and had to make a hard choice. I had to sell my Nikon 18-200. I put the money to good use, but I sure missed the "all around" qualities of a super zoom. I was surfing ebay one afternoon and came across this lens. The price was perfect. I was skeptical, but the price...well. When it came I was impressed. I feels good in hand...solid. I like the finish. I slapped it it on my D300 and got after it. Since then I have used it as my all around carry lens on my D80 and 300. No, it is not as fast as the Nikon...6.3 to 5.6 is not that much difference, but the difference is there. The image quality is on par with the Nikon...maybe even a bit better. It is a little slower to focus and I do mean a little slower. It is not as slick as big brand, but that doesn't mean that it is clunky. It just feels a little heavier and not as refined, but that also inspires confidence. It seems to lock up tighter to both my cameras. It feels like if you bump it around it can take it...it is funny. I never felt that way about the Nikon. The OS? It is quiet and effective. I can hand hold waaaaaay don there in the "don't do it" range and still get the shot. That's what it is all about...right? Getting the shot. I have to say, if you have the scratch...get the Nikon. At just over half the price, though, the Sigma is no slouch and even has some qualities that make it more than an equal. Take the extra money and get you a good 50mm f1.4 or 1.8.