Ever since the 300PF was introduced, I’ve been constantly asked … “What’s better for wildlife, the 300PF or the 80-400VR?” Now in answering this question, I’m looking just at 300mm vs. the 80-400VR at 400mm. The first at most important thing, IMHO, the 300PF and the 80-400VR are just as sharp as each other. There is no advantage over each other here. Adding the TC-14eIII to the 300PF getting to 420mm f/5.6 doesn’t change this IMHO (you can see in the photo above the length comparison, the 300 w/1.4x still much shorter than 80-400). So when answering the question, which is better, there is no help looking there. Neither is there looking at focusing speed, both focus just as fast. So in coming up with my answer which is better for wildlife photography, I bring your attention to the two lenses specs:
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Between looking at the photo above and the table, the 300PF hands down is what I think is best for wildlife (if we must select just one). Now I own both lenses. Why? If I’m going to have a lens on a second body when out photographing birds, it’s going to be the 300PF. If I’m going out after mammals or aircraft, I’m going to have the 80-400VR. The difference? The size and weight and MFD and flexibility of the lens. Those who have been asking generally have a fixed budge and looking for the most bang for their buck so they can spend the majority of their money out chasing that great photograph. I highly recommend the 300PF and if you can, get the TC-14eIII and then learn all the biology you can so you can zoom with your feet. So there you have it. Those of your who wanted that answer which lens, that’s my $.02 worth on the question.