<p>I've been using the 200-500 for a few weeks now and consider it my favorite lens of all time. Everything I've done with it is handheld. I leave the tripod collar on, turned to the right to serve as a handle as needed, and cradle the lens in my arm(s) when actively roaming for subjects. Otherwise, I keep it in a pack on the back for effortless getting to the scene of the action. As for in flight shots (and area I was never adept at) I've done quite well with some very cool results. In short, I could not be more pleased with the lens in general ... it's an absolute blast. -g-</p>