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Message: <blockquote data-quote="gergrd" data-source="post: 1676062" data-attributes="member: 81425"><p>I have the 70-200 2.8 VR (last years version) and a Nikon 1.7 Teleconverter.  This is a nice combo and is versatile, but it will exceed your $2K budget (especially if you get the new 70-200).  I don't use the 70-200 often for birds as it doesn't provide  enough reach (even with the TC).  I have a semi-retired Nikon 80-400 which is better than the 70 - 200 for birds and quite a bit cheaper than the 70-200.  But it does not focus very fast and it often gets confused between birds and branches when trying to focus on small birds.  I now use a Sigma 150 - 500 VR most often as it has more reach, focuses faster and focuses more accurately than the Nikon 80-400.  Image quality is as good as the 80-400 and it is "only" $1K, leaving you $1K for other glass.  I had not heard about a future Nikon 100-500.  I assume that it will be an AF-S VR lens, resolving the focus speed issue with the 80-400.  I'd guess it would also be a $2K+ lens, (several hundred dollars more expensive than the 80 - 400.  Good luck with your choice.</p></blockquote><p></p>