Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-5.6 AF APO DG HSM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sony D
This telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function. It offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for chromatic aberration. This lens is equipped with the rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing. It provides optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The minimum focusing distance of 150cm (59.1") throughout the entire zoomrange and has a maximum magnification of 1:4.2 make it useful for close-up photography. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF as well as full-time manual focusing capability. The addition of the optical 1.4x EXDG APO or 2x Ex DG APO Tele Converters produce a 168-560mm F6.3-8 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens or a 240-800mm F9-11 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
This telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function. It offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for chromatic aberration. This lens is equipped with the rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing. It provides optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The minimum focusing distance of 150cm (59.1") throughout the entire zoomrange and has a maximum magnification of 1:4.2 make it useful for close-up photography. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF as well as full-time manual focusing capability. The addition of the optical 1.4x EXDG APO or 2x Ex DG APO Tele Converters produce a 168-560mm F6.3-8 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens or a 240-800mm F9-11 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
This telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function. It offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for chromatic aberration. This lens is equipped with the rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing. It provides optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The minimum focusing distance of 150cm (59.1") throughout the entire zoomrange and has a maximum magnification of 1:4.2 make it useful for close-up photography. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF as well as full-time manual focusing capability. The addition of the optical 1.4x EXDG APO or 2x Ex DG APO Tele Converters produce a 168-560mm F6.3-8 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens or a 240-800mm F9-11 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
This telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function. It offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for chromatic aberration. This lens is equipped with the rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing. It provides optimum image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The minimum focusing distance of 150cm (59.1") throughout the entire zoomrange and has a maximum magnification of 1:4.2 make it useful for close-up photography. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF as well as full-time manual focusing capability. The addition of the optical 1.4x EXDG APO or 2x Ex DG APO Tele Converters produce a 168-560mm F6.3-8 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens or a 240-800mm F9-11 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.
in 33 offers
The lowest price for Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-5.6 AF APO DG HSM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sony D right now is $280.00 at Kamerastore, compared across 2 retailers.
The all-time low was $195.00 on 6 June 2026 — today's price is 44% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 10 June 2026.
Last updated at 10/06/2026 00:51:04
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 APO DG HSM
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
[as-is] Sigma Apo 120–400mm F/4.5–5.6 Dg Os Hsm Zoom Lens For Nikon
Free delivery
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Sigma Apo 120-400mm F/4.5-5.6 Dg Os Hsm Zoom For Nikon. Mf Only.
Delivery $31.33
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[as-is] Sigma Apo 120–400mm F/4.5–5.6 Dg Os Hsm Zoom Lens For Nikon
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Exc++ Sigma Af Apo 135-400mm F4.5-5.6 Dg Zoom Lens For Sony A Mount
Delivery $86.16
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[near Mint+++] Sigma Apo 120-400mm F/4.5-5.6 Dg Hsm Os For Nikon F
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Sigma Apo 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 Dg Os Hsm For Pentax From Japan B635
Delivery $109.66
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originally posted on ebay.com
After two or three years of using a bridge camera, I've gone back to a DSLR (A Canon 750D) and I wanted a lens to use at airshows. My Canon 55-250mm does the trick, but I am used to the greater zoom of the bridge camera, so I wanted a longer lens for the DSLR. I had planned on the Canon 100-400mm, but when I read reviews (a lot of them), I saw the Sigma 120-400mm stood up well against it and for a much more favourable price. I have had Sigma lenses in the past and have always been happy with them, so I bought this one. There is no denying that it is a heavy lens, but I haven't felt the need to mount it on a tripod, though I would have to do so for slow exposures. I used it on a trip to a wildlife park and wondered if the weight would make it a burden, but it didn't ... MoreAfter two or three years of using a bridge camera, I've gone back to a DSLR (A Canon 750D) and I wanted a lens to use at airshows. My Canon 55-250mm does the trick, but I am used to the greater zoom of the bridge camera, so I wanted a longer lens for the DSLR. I had planned on the Canon 100-400mm, but when I read reviews (a lot of them), I saw the Sigma 120-400mm stood up well against it and for a much more favourable price. I have had Sigma lenses in the past and have always been happy with them, so I bought this one. There is no denying that it is a heavy lens, but I haven't felt the need to mount it on a tripod, though I would have to do so for slow exposures. I used it on a trip to a wildlife park and wondered if the weight would make it a burden, but it didn't and I can happily carry it around all day. I have yet to visit an airshow with it, but to get the feel of it I have used it to photograph planes, including military jets, passing my home and have found it easy to get them quickly into the viewfinder. The zoom responds well to the touch and I am happy with the photographs. In all, I am very pleased that I bought it.
originally posted on wexphotographic.com
I purchased this for wildlife photography - I had used lens up to 250mm or even 300mm but realised that I could use a bit more reach, preferably well over 300mm. I also wanted it to be a zoom lens and preferabley have optical image stabilisation - this narrowed it down to a choice of two: the canon 100-400mm L IS or the Sigma 120-400mm OS.The obvious reason for going for the Sigma is its around half the cost, less obvious reasons would be that its is a modern two-touch zoom design (unlike the 1998 design push-pull system of the canon 100-400mm L, which I'm told is prone to sucking in alot of dust), and that having seen multiple online reviews it seems that the canon is no sharper at any focal length.Having got the lens, the overall impresion right out of the box ... MoreI purchased this for wildlife photography - I had used lens up to 250mm or even 300mm but realised that I could use a bit more reach, preferably well over 300mm. I also wanted it to be a zoom lens and preferabley have optical image stabilisation - this narrowed it down to a choice of two: the canon 100-400mm L IS or the Sigma 120-400mm OS.The obvious reason for going for the Sigma is its around half the cost, less obvious reasons would be that its is a modern two-touch zoom design (unlike the 1998 design push-pull system of the canon 100-400mm L, which I'm told is prone to sucking in alot of dust), and that having seen multiple online reviews it seems that the canon is no sharper at any focal length.Having got the lens, the overall impresion right out of the box is of quality - the lens comes with a massive lens hood, a locking switch for travelling(to stop it extending when not in use despite it being unlikely to move when new), and a high quality bag/pouch which is labelled EX despite this not being branded as an EX lens (its worth noting the finish is the same as another EX lens I own, so its almost like they decided not to market it as an EX quality lens at the last second).It is a big lens, but not excessively so for what it gives you - when zoomed out to 120mm its quite compact and fine for handholding (you can use the tripod lens collar to hold the lens rather than the camera when walking about as it has a sculptured grip for fingers) albeit at the limits of what is practical for hand-held shooting.Having a 77mm front element means you do need a large UV filter to protect the front element but this is a fairly minor expense in the scheme of things. The cylindrical lens hood is very beefy and looks designed to withstand the worst knocks and bumps further protecting the front element. That said the lens hood has slightly different finish to the lens which marks fairly easily - mine is looking distinctly well used and I've not abused the lens or hood its mainly marked from taking it on and off. I am suprised the hood is not petal shaped given that the front element does not rotate, I suspect this is for strength rather than optical reasons as its the sturdiest lens hood I have come across.In use the lens is excellent, very quick to lock on and quick to change focus with moving targets, even more amazing when you consider the size of glass thats being moved around, the OS system is excellent but not particularly quiet, again I suspect due to the size of the glass being moved. The reach of this lens is great, to give some idea I recently tried taking pictures of the moon from my garden which fill 3/4 of the frame, try doing that with your kit lens!The only problem I would suggest with this lens is its weight, which is some 12 ounces/350g heavier than the canon L equivalent and can be a little cumbersome to quickly swing into action when something unexpected happens (Such as a low flying bird suddenly flying over your head). The weight also mounts up if your using it over a full day and if you have any difficulty with back/arms you may need some kind of harness or additional support.The lens is also excellent when used on a tripod, the tripod collar balances it well but bear in mind the overall weight when used with a Canon pro/semi pro body may be too much for some tripods and tripod heads - I tried this on a budget Jessops tripod which took the weight when level but when angled up the head was prone to tipping back as it could not provide enough torque/friction to hold it still.I find the supplied lens strap unnecessary as it would only be practical if you always use the tripod collar upside down when out and about. its nice to have however.
originally posted on wexphotographic.com
After reading many, many reviews of the Sigma 120-400mm lens and the Canon alternative, 100-400mm and taking into consideration the cost, I decided on the Sigma lens. If I was wealthier, or a professional, my decision may have gone the other way.Having now purchased it I have to agree with the majority of these reviews. The lens gives great results right through the zoom range, although at 400mm it can be a bit "soft". But I feel this out weighs the additional cost, it's almost half the price, of the Canon 100-400mm. The lens is weighty but this just adds to the feel of durability and quality in my humble opinion. The tripod mount becomes a useful carrying device, the zoom also has a very good lock that prevents the zoom slipping whilst being carried. The ... MoreAfter reading many, many reviews of the Sigma 120-400mm lens and the Canon alternative, 100-400mm and taking into consideration the cost, I decided on the Sigma lens. If I was wealthier, or a professional, my decision may have gone the other way.Having now purchased it I have to agree with the majority of these reviews. The lens gives great results right through the zoom range, although at 400mm it can be a bit "soft". But I feel this out weighs the additional cost, it's almost half the price, of the Canon 100-400mm. The lens is weighty but this just adds to the feel of durability and quality in my humble opinion. The tripod mount becomes a useful carrying device, the zoom also has a very good lock that prevents the zoom slipping whilst being carried. The stabilisation has worked well for me and during a recent visit to Cornwall standing over looking Lantic Bay on a very blustery day came it's own.Overall a fine lens at a great price.
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 APO DG HSM
Delivery $59
Sigma 120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG APO HSM OS
Delivery $59
[as-is] Sigma Apo 120–400mm F/4.5–5.6 Dg Os Hsm Zoom Lens For Nikon
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
After two or three years of using a bridge camera, I've gone back to a DSLR (A Canon 750D) and I wanted a lens to use at airshows. My Canon 55-250mm does the trick, but I am used to the greater zoom of the bridge camera, so I wanted a longer lens for the DSLR. I had planned on the Canon 100-400mm, but when I read reviews (a lot of them), I saw the Sigma 120-400mm stood up well against it and for a much more favourable price. I have had Sigma lenses in the past and have always been happy with them, so I bought this one. There is no denying that it is a heavy lens, but I haven't felt the need to mount it on a tripod, though I would have to do so for slow exposures. I used it on a trip to a wildlife park and wondered if the weight would make it a burden, but it didn't ... MoreAfter two or three years of using a bridge camera, I've gone back to a DSLR (A Canon 750D) and I wanted a lens to use at airshows. My Canon 55-250mm does the trick, but I am used to the greater zoom of the bridge camera, so I wanted a longer lens for the DSLR. I had planned on the Canon 100-400mm, but when I read reviews (a lot of them), I saw the Sigma 120-400mm stood up well against it and for a much more favourable price. I have had Sigma lenses in the past and have always been happy with them, so I bought this one. There is no denying that it is a heavy lens, but I haven't felt the need to mount it on a tripod, though I would have to do so for slow exposures. I used it on a trip to a wildlife park and wondered if the weight would make it a burden, but it didn't and I can happily carry it around all day. I have yet to visit an airshow with it, but to get the feel of it I have used it to photograph planes, including military jets, passing my home and have found it easy to get them quickly into the viewfinder. The zoom responds well to the touch and I am happy with the photographs. In all, I am very pleased that I bought it.
I purchased this for wildlife photography - I had used lens up to 250mm or even 300mm but realised that I could use a bit more reach, preferably well over 300mm. I also wanted it to be a zoom lens and preferabley have optical image stabilisation - this narrowed it down to a choice of two: the canon 100-400mm L IS or the Sigma 120-400mm OS.The obvious reason for going for the Sigma is its around half the cost, less obvious reasons would be that its is a modern two-touch zoom design (unlike the 1998 design push-pull system of the canon 100-400mm L, which I'm told is prone to sucking in alot of dust), and that having seen multiple online reviews it seems that the canon is no sharper at any focal length.Having got the lens, the overall impresion right out of the box ... MoreI purchased this for wildlife photography - I had used lens up to 250mm or even 300mm but realised that I could use a bit more reach, preferably well over 300mm. I also wanted it to be a zoom lens and preferabley have optical image stabilisation - this narrowed it down to a choice of two: the canon 100-400mm L IS or the Sigma 120-400mm OS.The obvious reason for going for the Sigma is its around half the cost, less obvious reasons would be that its is a modern two-touch zoom design (unlike the 1998 design push-pull system of the canon 100-400mm L, which I'm told is prone to sucking in alot of dust), and that having seen multiple online reviews it seems that the canon is no sharper at any focal length.Having got the lens, the overall impresion right out of the box is of quality - the lens comes with a massive lens hood, a locking switch for travelling(to stop it extending when not in use despite it being unlikely to move when new), and a high quality bag/pouch which is labelled EX despite this not being branded as an EX lens (its worth noting the finish is the same as another EX lens I own, so its almost like they decided not to market it as an EX quality lens at the last second).It is a big lens, but not excessively so for what it gives you - when zoomed out to 120mm its quite compact and fine for handholding (you can use the tripod lens collar to hold the lens rather than the camera when walking about as it has a sculptured grip for fingers) albeit at the limits of what is practical for hand-held shooting.Having a 77mm front element means you do need a large UV filter to protect the front element but this is a fairly minor expense in the scheme of things. The cylindrical lens hood is very beefy and looks designed to withstand the worst knocks and bumps further protecting the front element. That said the lens hood has slightly different finish to the lens which marks fairly easily - mine is looking distinctly well used and I've not abused the lens or hood its mainly marked from taking it on and off. I am suprised the hood is not petal shaped given that the front element does not rotate, I suspect this is for strength rather than optical reasons as its the sturdiest lens hood I have come across.In use the lens is excellent, very quick to lock on and quick to change focus with moving targets, even more amazing when you consider the size of glass thats being moved around, the OS system is excellent but not particularly quiet, again I suspect due to the size of the glass being moved. The reach of this lens is great, to give some idea I recently tried taking pictures of the moon from my garden which fill 3/4 of the frame, try doing that with your kit lens!The only problem I would suggest with this lens is its weight, which is some 12 ounces/350g heavier than the canon L equivalent and can be a little cumbersome to quickly swing into action when something unexpected happens (Such as a low flying bird suddenly flying over your head). The weight also mounts up if your using it over a full day and if you have any difficulty with back/arms you may need some kind of harness or additional support.The lens is also excellent when used on a tripod, the tripod collar balances it well but bear in mind the overall weight when used with a Canon pro/semi pro body may be too much for some tripods and tripod heads - I tried this on a budget Jessops tripod which took the weight when level but when angled up the head was prone to tipping back as it could not provide enough torque/friction to hold it still.I find the supplied lens strap unnecessary as it would only be practical if you always use the tripod collar upside down when out and about. its nice to have however.
After reading many, many reviews of the Sigma 120-400mm lens and the Canon alternative, 100-400mm and taking into consideration the cost, I decided on the Sigma lens. If I was wealthier, or a professional, my decision may have gone the other way.Having now purchased it I have to agree with the majority of these reviews. The lens gives great results right through the zoom range, although at 400mm it can be a bit "soft". But I feel this out weighs the additional cost, it's almost half the price, of the Canon 100-400mm. The lens is weighty but this just adds to the feel of durability and quality in my humble opinion. The tripod mount becomes a useful carrying device, the zoom also has a very good lock that prevents the zoom slipping whilst being carried. The ... MoreAfter reading many, many reviews of the Sigma 120-400mm lens and the Canon alternative, 100-400mm and taking into consideration the cost, I decided on the Sigma lens. If I was wealthier, or a professional, my decision may have gone the other way.Having now purchased it I have to agree with the majority of these reviews. The lens gives great results right through the zoom range, although at 400mm it can be a bit "soft". But I feel this out weighs the additional cost, it's almost half the price, of the Canon 100-400mm. The lens is weighty but this just adds to the feel of durability and quality in my humble opinion. The tripod mount becomes a useful carrying device, the zoom also has a very good lock that prevents the zoom slipping whilst being carried. The stabilisation has worked well for me and during a recent visit to Cornwall standing over looking Lantic Bay on a very blustery day came it's own.Overall a fine lens at a great price.
It's big and it's heavy. And it has an image stabilizer. Note there is no EX version of this lens despite what is advertised! I needed a firmware update by Sigma before it would work with my Nikon D600 but it was fine on my D80 from the outset. The alternatives are more expensive so it's a case of 'pay your money and take your choice'. Sharp enough for me but not up to the genuine Nikon lenses nor my 70mm Sigma EX. Great value at the price & I'm very happy with it.
I've owned this lens for 10 months during which it has spent most of its time in the African bush taking wildlife photos attached to my 20D. This has been exceptionally tough environment and is probably the equivalent of 10 years plus of normal use so please bear that in mind when reading my comments. I have taken many many thousands of shots with this combo from dawn to dusk mostly hand held.As mentioned by other reviewers when first opening the box you are struck by the weight, build and finish. It's quite a beast. It's not all good news though. The sparkly finish attracts African bush dust like you wouldn't believe, often after a drive the lens would take on a brown hue as the dust is ingrained into the finish. Also where the lens is handled in the same place ... MoreI've owned this lens for 10 months during which it has spent most of its time in the African bush taking wildlife photos attached to my 20D. This has been exceptionally tough environment and is probably the equivalent of 10 years plus of normal use so please bear that in mind when reading my comments. I have taken many many thousands of shots with this combo from dawn to dusk mostly hand held.As mentioned by other reviewers when first opening the box you are struck by the weight, build and finish. It's quite a beast. It's not all good news though. The sparkly finish attracts African bush dust like you wouldn't believe, often after a drive the lens would take on a brown hue as the dust is ingrained into the finish. Also where the lens is handled in the same place repeatedly the finish has lost it's sparkle and taken on a much lighter hue.A few particles of that dust have managed to penetrate the interior of the lens too despite having a UV filter attached, not enough to affect image quality and you need to remember that what I've done with this lens is probably the equivalent of dropping one in a bucket of talc and then moving the zoom a couple of thousand times. A few particles is actually pretty amazing given this lens doesn't claim to have weather/dust proofing and so dust is unlikely to trouble you in practice. The lens hood is quite sturdy but does mark very easily and is showing wear signs from simply putting the hood on and off, the same can be said for the thread on the lens where it locks in.Initially there is no sign of lens creep, however now after thousands of shots gravity will now move the zoom quite easily. I know Sigma can tighten this in a service and I haven't found it to be an issue in practice.Focussing is fast and pretty accurate, even to the point of tracking flying birds consistently though it failed with dragonflies in flight and I had to switch to manual for these. I've found that focus wide open can be a little soft at full zoom but this can be tamed by stepping down a bit and then ramping up the iso to compensate. With these adjustments my pictures are razor sharp and dripping in detail.Weight is a bit of an issue, I've taken this lens on a couple of hikes and I really can't recommend that! Though the supplied neck strap comes in very handy if you do try this. Panning shots are a challenge, this amount of glass takes some muscle to control properly and repeated panning is very tiring. I did this at World Superbikes for lap after lap and I was cursing by the end. When hand holding the zoom and focus rings fall naturally to hand and the lens does feel comfortable size wise.Colour and image rendition is first class with good rendition/saturation and no distortions or aberrations visible to my eye.This is a very good lens at a excellent price compared to the Canon equivalent, it will serve you well and last for many years of normal use.
This is a beautiful lens. It's massive, built like a battleship, yet I found I could shoot hand-held even at full zoom and still get fine results. Shooting at f8 the images were razor sharp. I've been using a Sigma 20-210 2.8 for many years and this 120-400 is every bit as well-built and just as sharp. The Sigma anti-vibration system seems to be exceptionally efficient (and at my age I really need it!). All in all this lens has exceeded my most sanguine expectations.
I upgraded to this lens from the Sigma 70-300mm which I felt was a little soft at 300mm. This lens is significantly cheaper than Nikon's own unit and has has both good and bad reviews. Firstly it is heavy and big, in fact it's a job to see the camera! However that aside it's well made with a nice metal mount. There is little movement once fitted. The focus ring is at the back of the lens, hand holding with the tripod mount on can make manual focusing a little tricky, I should think a problem for small hands but the tripod mount ring is easily removed. Zoom ring is nice not sloppy and there is little creep, you can lock at 120mm but no other distance (never under stood this!) The hood is reversible for transport and does tend to fall off if you knock the lens against ... MoreI upgraded to this lens from the Sigma 70-300mm which I felt was a little soft at 300mm. This lens is significantly cheaper than Nikon's own unit and has has both good and bad reviews. Firstly it is heavy and big, in fact it's a job to see the camera! However that aside it's well made with a nice metal mount. There is little movement once fitted. The focus ring is at the back of the lens, hand holding with the tripod mount on can make manual focusing a little tricky, I should think a problem for small hands but the tripod mount ring is easily removed. Zoom ring is nice not sloppy and there is little creep, you can lock at 120mm but no other distance (never under stood this!) The hood is reversible for transport and does tend to fall off if you knock the lens against your body etc. Picture quality, I'm quite fussy with pictures and appreciate there is a difference with lens quality etc, but I do not take this to the extremes in my hobby, suffice to say with this lens at 400mm you will need a tripod and cable release and give the unit a few seconds to stabilize before you press the shutter. The focus hunts a little but spot metering will help at 400mm. the images at 400mm have been OK not amazing but I have not tested in the best of light. The OS is impressive, (noisy) but impressive I did some and held at 400mm and was really pleased with the result. sharp and clear, again read the instructions let the lens do the work and press the shutter. OS will eat the camera battery however. If you are debating this lens, buy it you will not be disappointed, I was glad of the reviews when I looked I hope this one helps.
Sigma has been putting out after-market lenses in the past 15 to 20 years which meet or beat the OEM lenses for which I have "invested" in, until recently. I have the best of Nikon lenses, to a price point. I admit, I've spent upwards to $1,700 for a Nikon lens, and have photographed with great success with them. But, I'm blown away as to the quality of the Sigma lenses in the EX and ART series. This 120-400mm is no exception. I've taken it out, in unheard of night conditions, and it performed like a champ. It was clear, sharp, had great contrast in low light, and produced. My sample photo is too large to attach, so find the photo on Flickr using photos/lavonnehing/50557016696/in/dateposted-public to see for yourself. Amazing! This is a 5 Photo panorama, composite, ... MoreSigma has been putting out after-market lenses in the past 15 to 20 years which meet or beat the OEM lenses for which I have "invested" in, until recently. I have the best of Nikon lenses, to a price point. I admit, I've spent upwards to $1,700 for a Nikon lens, and have photographed with great success with them. But, I'm blown away as to the quality of the Sigma lenses in the EX and ART series. This 120-400mm is no exception. I've taken it out, in unheard of night conditions, and it performed like a champ. It was clear, sharp, had great contrast in low light, and produced. My sample photo is too large to attach, so find the photo on Flickr using photos/lavonnehing/50557016696/in/dateposted-public to see for yourself. Amazing! This is a 5 Photo panorama, composite, shot with this lens. My camera was a Nikon D810, yes fantastic in and of itself, but I know what the combo of great glass and my camera body can produce. Wow!
I bought this for outdoor sport and wildlife. This is instead of using the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 with 2x teleconverter. So far I have only used it for wildlife on a Nikon D4 in good light. I have been really impressed by the pin-point focussing. However, sometimes it needs a bit of manual pre-focussing, for example to focus on a small flying bird against sky as otherwise it just keeps trying to focus. Having said that I have taken many birds in flight with 3D tracking on and get excellent results - much better hit rate than with the other lens. It even performed well through mist. Images are well saturated with good contrast. The zoom is quite loose and does not stay put when at a vertical angle. There is a lock to lock it short for carrying but you can't lock it long ... MoreI bought this for outdoor sport and wildlife. This is instead of using the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 with 2x teleconverter. So far I have only used it for wildlife on a Nikon D4 in good light. I have been really impressed by the pin-point focussing. However, sometimes it needs a bit of manual pre-focussing, for example to focus on a small flying bird against sky as otherwise it just keeps trying to focus. Having said that I have taken many birds in flight with 3D tracking on and get excellent results - much better hit rate than with the other lens. It even performed well through mist. Images are well saturated with good contrast. The zoom is quite loose and does not stay put when at a vertical angle. There is a lock to lock it short for carrying but you can't lock it long or anywhere in between. I would prefer something a little stiffer. The tripod mount is solid and grips the lens well. The lens comes in a substantial case to keep it safe. The lens is not light of course, but much lighter than some other 400mm lenses you might consider, and comparable to the 70-200 f2.8. I have taken it on walks of a few miles and it's too heavy to have hanging round your neck, but carry it by the tripod mount or put it in your kit rucksack until you need it and it's portable enough. I could use it all day, hand held if need be, though would take a monopod for sport use or a tripod to stake out a nest site etc. I am really pleased with this lens and glad I didn't splash out on a much bigger, heavier and much more expensive lens.
It's a good lens when it works. I've only used it maybe five times and it already broke. The focus has always seemed to lock up after a while and I would either need to turn off and on my camera or detach and re-attach the lens to get it working again. This was seemingly a common problem as certain serial numbers were recalled back in 2010. But now after my five uses, it has just completely locked up and shut down. Pressing my focus button does nothing at all.
