Originally Posted by
billtils
In my experience, and that of a birder friend, it is great value. The only drawback is that it's a relatively slow lens (f5.0 - 6.3) but I've never had any issues with quality at higher ISOs. Mine is one of the originals, and it does appear that the current version is better (but more expensive). I trimmed the quote as I have no idea how it will perform in astrophotography (but I did get some not bad moon shots). I'll PM you a link to some examples later - busy day ahead so it may be tomorrow before I manage to arrange it.