What are the best 300mm zooms for the Maxxum 5?

[tony_potter1]

Hi, I see a lot of specific lense questions, but I am wondering about

anyone's experiences with 300mm (or around there) telephoto lenses

with Minolta. Some people seem to hesitate to invest in too many

accessories for 'just' a Minolta...but I love my Maxxum 5, its the

fastest camera Ive used (I hear Hasselblad is using their shutter?),

and I want to get a nice zoom for it. With brands like Sigma, Vivitar,

Tamron, and Minolta lenses, which are the best for the money I should

spend for my setup? Any related comments on the subject would be

appreciated. No grumpiness! =P Thanks a lot guys~

[rude boy]

Well, i've gotten laughs upon it being seen, but I've mounted the 300mm Minolta G series on it before. I've got the 300/4 but the 300/2=.8 is the same size. I have the 7 now, but when I had the 5, it did quite well with the 300. The focusing is quite fast, and couple that with the 4fps and I was able to capture some great sports images. AMAZING lens. If you're lucky, you can pick up a used one for around $500 on ebay. Oh, yah, the glass, phenominal. I've made some 20x24's with 200, that you couldn't see any grain on.

[unohuu]

Jesse, as someone who is also comparing and looking at Minolta telephoto lenses, I strongly suggest you skip the zoom route and shoot for a prime. At long distances that would require a 300mm lens, you would most probably want to have a fast lens. At the 300mm range right now you can spend $2000 for the f/2.8 version Minolta, about 3/4 that for a third party lens. For about $600 you can get the Minolta f/4 and about 7/8 of that for a Sigma or Tokina lens. I am hoping for the 200mm HS APO version for about $400 and wisely considering the 1.4 teleconverter to make it an f/4 lens. I think you should shop around with the camera and think about what you are going to be shooting. Sports- faster lens the better; wildlife - faster lens would give you more range with quick moving animals and birds in shadows, etc. Just one Minolta lover's opinion.

[magic1]

Since you asked about zooms (and every one else is talking primes to you), I recommend the Minolta 100-300 APO. Mine is very sharp, especially at the 300mm end. Yes, I know, not as sharp as a prime, but for a little $300 new compared to $2000, I'll have to live with that.

 

If you want something a little stronger. I recently picked up the Minolta 500mm f/8 Cat lens and so far I'm happy with it, especially since I got it in mint condition for $150.

[guy_mansford]

I'd second the 100-300apo. It's a good lens and light enough to carry around easily. Not brilliant at 300 but excellent at 100 and 200mm.

[tony_potter1]

Thanks very much you guys!