Picked up (lugged) my Sigma 50-500 today

[iwatkins]

Hi All,

Finally gave in and bought the last lens I need* for my 10D today. The Sigma 50-500 F4 EX.

First impression is that it is heavy :)

Second impression is that it is solid and feels a lot less fragile than some Sigma lenses.

Third impression is that I've no idea how it performs as I only got back home after dark. :(

I'll put up some test shots tomorrow.

Cheers

Ian

* "Last lens I need" is what I tell the missus, I then mutter under my breath "... this week". :)

[robertwgross]

Ian, I don't have that lens. I have the Sigma 170-500mm.

Did you get yours with the optional trailer? It is a lot easier to move it around that way.

Your next surprise comes when you try to purchase filters for it. ($$$)

---Bob Gross---

[iwatkins]

robertwgross wrote:
Did you get yours with the optional trailer? It is a lot easier to move it around that way.

Your next surprise comes when you try to purchase filters for it. ($$$)

---Bob Gross---

Bob, Bob, do keep up. Sigma now give you the option to hire a Sherpa to carry your lenses. OK, more expensive than the trailer option but at least he is someone to talk to as *he* hauls all your gear up the side of a mountain :) :)

Filters, erm, looked at that and then decided I didn't really need any filters after all. :)

Cheers

Ian

[robertwgross]

iwatkins wrote:
Bob, Bob, do keep up. Sigma now give you the option to hire a Sherpa to carry your lenses. OK, more expensive than the trailer option but at least he is someone to talk to as *he* hauls all your gear up the side of a mountain :) :)


Actually, on both occasions that I have trekked in Nepal, I carried all of my camera equipment without Sherpas to help. On the first trip, using non-Canon equipment, I shot one of the most meaningful photos of my life (a little Sherpa girl holding her baby brother). On the second trip, using Canon film equipment, I got a shot of unusual wildlife there. I can't wait for another visit. Instead of using Sherpas, some have started using a metal two-wheeled cart to haul heavy loads. I'm still looking for that listing in the B&H catalog.

---Bob Gross---

[ron chappel]

It sounds like the comment about the small cart is not a joke-how does it go on the inevitable rough terrain?

[CyberDyneSystems]

Looking forward to seeing some shots Ian :)

[robertwgross]

The cart might be described as a rickshaw without any high top. It is collapsible and constructed of metal. There are two wheels that allow it to roll over a rough trail or across a smooth plain. It is supposed to be good for hauling 200 pounds.

I've never carried more than about twenty pounds worth of camera gear in Nepal, so it's unlikely that I would want to use such a contraption. But it is a concept.

Another mode of transport there is the yak. Promise me that you will never load up your precious camera gear onto the back of a yak.

---Bob Gross---

[Canuck]

Enquire about the lorry option!
Should I say, "Ask about the truck/18 wheeler option!"
this will obviously not work in places other than the US and more than likely not in places in the US. LOL!

Seriously, there are backpacks out there that could fit the bill. I'm looking at some that are airline carry-on. I will not trust airline flunkies with my camera kit. It will stay in my eyesite at all times. I've been looking at Tamron, Lowepro, and others. I have a 5.75 lb lens to carry too. Welcome to the "my lens is bigger than yours" club. Almost forgot that there is lens envy too!

Cheers from England,
Canuck