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CONCLUSIONS

This is not the lens for fast-breaking or active subjects, due to its sluggish AF, nor for full-frame shooters worried about light falloff at wide settings. But this new VC superzoom should reward everyone else -- macro shooters and DSLR users of all persuasions -- with its excellent distortion control and remarkable sharpness, even in low light, across a one-size-fits-all zoom range. And all in a conveniently compact, affordable package.

Specifications

28-300mm (28.89-297.11mm tested), f/3.5-6.3 (f/3.69-N/A tested*), 15 elements in 13 groups. Focusing turns 50 degrees clockwise. Zoom ring turns 80 degrees counterclockwise. Focal lengths marked at 28-, 35-, 50-, 70-, 100-, 135-, 200-, and 300mm.

• Diagonal view angle: 75-8 degrees.

• Weight: 1.29 lb.

• Filter size: 67mm.

• Mounts: Canon AF, Nikon AF.

• Included: Lenshood.

• Street price: $600.

*Not available due to instrument limitations.

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