The VR functionality I guess is the main drawcard for this lens, compared to half as expensive third party alternatives (Sigma and Tamron 70-300s). My cynicism of any forms of optical stabilisation being an alternative to proper shooting technique aside, I believe many will find VR a helpful feature in their photography.
Compared to other lenses - its closest sibling would no doubt be the previous generation 70-300G or ED, but I also think it has quite a bit in common with the 80-400VR. Both feature vibration reduction, both have the same variable aperture f/4.5-5.6, and in terms of focal range - the 70-300VR goes a bit wider but not as long, but is otherwise similar IMO. Auto focus would be faster featuring a silent wave motor instead of screw-driven via the body. An 80-200 or 70-200 f/2.8 'pro-grade' glass is obviously in a different league and aimed at a different niche to the target market for this lens. Although in terms of prices, the upgrade to the 80-200 isn't all that big of a leap - and anyone considering this lens should also consider the 80-200 IMO, esp if it's going to be your only medium tele-zoom lens.
Weight and build quality - the 70-300VR features 'plastic fantastic' build and is light weight, but it's only about an inch shorter retracted than my 80-200 push-pull. When zoomed out to 300mm, it grows about 2 inches longer. The build quality is surprisingly good IMO. Zoom and focus rings glides smoothly and there's no traces of zoom creep.
Comes with a faux-suede cloth pouch. Not as good as the hard cases of Nikon's pro grade glass in terms of physical protection in storage, but I guess it's better than nothing (or until you can afford a third party alternative).
The HB-36 hood fits my existing 18-70. Physically fits that is, impractical in use, as it vignettes severely below 35mm. Hilariously, the length of the hood is the same as the 18-70 lens.
Images - meh, I'll wait until the next model shoot I attend. Nobody wants to see shots of my backyard...
