Nikkor 80-400VR vs. Sigma 50-500

[Igor]

I promised a comparison shot between these two similar lenses, so here it is.
Both on a tripod (VR off), 400mm, ISO200, HIGH-STD-STD.
Sigma: 1/750 f/6.3
Nikkor: 1/1000 f/5.6

Both just 100% crops, no p/processing at all.

[Igor]

Full image downsized to give you an idea how far the subject was.

[Ol'coot]

Thanks for the comparison shots, I assume the left photo is the Sigma and the right the Nikon? Which ever lens was used for the left hand shot is much sharper and contrast is better, at least on my monitor.

I received my Sigma 50-500 late afternoon yesterday and only snapped a couple of quick shots to make sure it functioned properly. I will give it a good workout this weekend at the Detroit Zoo weather permitting. :rockon:

This is a heavy lens!!!!!

[Igor]

Yes, Sigma is left, Nikkor is right.
Congrats on your new lens! Post your pics when you have some to share, it's interesting to compare how Sigma's samples vary in image quality (if they do).

[killians913]

Maybe its just me or my monitor, but perhaps the Sigma looks sharper because it was stopped down to f6.3 vice f5.6 for the Nikkor. At f6.3, this may be the sweet spot for this lens at 400mm (f6.3 is wide open at "500mm" for the Sigma) while at 400mm on the Nikkor, you are at wide open.

Other thoughts?

Lockett

[AzRich]

ugh...

Guys, stop it! I have to wait until a settlement comes through I can get one of these. Please, you're killing me....

(I hear chanting in my head - ssssiiiigggmmmmaaaaa....50-500mmmmmmmm)

[Igor]

Lockett,
f/6.3 is the minimum/wide open aperture for Sigma lens from 300mm and above.