ORIGINAL: Justin
The only problem with the 400 mm lenses is just the cost. I know for most of the people I talk to, dropping $1,300 to $5,000 on a lens is a bit much unless you're either very serious about photography, money is not an object, or both. You're right with the "buy cheap, buy twice" thought process but if you can't drop that much coin on a lens I think a 200 mm or a 300 mm lens is sufficient for most people.
It's not cheap I agree-and a cheaper lens will allow you to 'capture the moment' butthat's about it. IMO.I just don't believe in buying stuff twice. Just save and get what you need. A $99 CVA Buckhorn ML will kill deer just as dead as a $800 Knight Long Range Hunter but people spend money on those w/out even thinking twice. To each his own of course. But AR Bowhunter asked for my opinion and that's what I suggest.
Plus, it's hard to disagree w/a guy who's Profile Pic is Dwight Schrute. In fact one of my bosses is coming back from vacation tomorrow to find his name tag and favorite pen in jello.