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Message: <blockquote data-quote="sugarzebra" data-source="post: 1670357" data-attributes="member: 80158">I'm new around here so probably haven't earned the right to comment however I've enjoyed this thread too much not too <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite1" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":)" />  I use the 400/5.6 and chose it over the 100-400 because of its faster AF speed, lighter weight and sharpness wide open.  That said, I have other glass to cover 100-399mm range and for most bird photography image stabilization is not that important due to the higher shutter speeds required.  As you are purchasing your first DSLR gear, my recommendation would be to get the 100-400 as being your only lens the versatility it provides is invaluable (if possible, buy a body with a kit lens as well).  I would also start with the 7D as the tracking ability of the AF is better and for birds anything that improves your keeper rate is worth investing in, plus its 'cropability' is better than the 40/50D which is also significant for bird photography.Enjoy your research, but pull the trigger & enjoy using your new gear even more <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite1" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":)" /></blockquote>