tony_fraley

<p>Sorry it took me so long to get back and check for replies, but I do appreciate them. I feel a bit better about the strength of the lens mount now.<br> That Black Rapid strap looks like something I could use. I'd imagine that would work perfectly with the lens collar on the 80-200, and then I wouldn't have to worry about the lens mount anyway. The only problem then would be having to remove the Really Right Stuff tripod plate I have on it now whenever I want to use it, but I can live with that.<br> Much appreciated, folks. Now I just need the camera...</p>

<p>Having used this lens on my old D70, I've always been careful NOT to let the combo hang from my shoulder via a strap, but instead carried it by holding it with my hand cupped under the lens since there was always the concern that the lens weight would pull the mount off of the camera.<br> The plan is to upgrade to the D7100 in the next couple of weeks, and since I've seen nothing about this particular combo, is this conceived stress something that I should be worried about with the new body? As much as I love this lens, it can take it's toll on the old elbow joint after a couple of hours of lugging around in this fashion, so the option of giving my arm an occasional break by just letting it hang off my shoulder would be a plus.<br> And yeah, I DO have a good tripod and ballhead combo, but I don't always want to have to lug it around with me. I CAN, I just don't want to.</p>