I switched over to Nikon from Pentax last summer, and am still trying to complete my setup. I just sold several Pentax and some of the kit (cheap) Nikon lenses I purchased to get me through until I could get better glass. I have the Tamron 70-200 and need a good quality wide angle to go with it. I only have about $600 right now, so the Nikon 14-24 is out for now. I see that a lot of people are using the Tokina 11-16mm f2.8. Also, there is the Tamron 17-50mm f2.8 that's in the budget.
From the lenses you're mentioning I'd assume you're using a DX camera body?
The 17-50mm range is more of a standard zoom range than specifically wide angle on DX going from an ~24mm FX FOV which is wide to a moderate telephoto range. The 11-16mm is more of an ultra wide angle to wide angle zoom. Both are extremely well regarded. You've just got to decide which fits your needs and style.
17-50 is not wide, it is the equivalent of a mid-range FX zoom. The Tokina 11-16 is apparently a nice optic but for me its range is kind of limiting. If I am to carry a heavy bulky zoom I might as well keep it on the camera more of the time, with 11-16 you are almost carrying a prime. For me the Nikon 10-24 is the most versatile WA zoom, though it is a bit outside your range even used. If you do not need large aperture the Sigma 10-20 MkI is an insane value and a great optic.
Thank you, everyone. Your recommendations give me a lot to go on. It's often difficult when you have a limited budget to know which lenses give you the most bang for your buck. I have no personal experience with the Tokina brand, but have read good things here.
