It's pretty rare now, because it's discontinued and it had a lot of focus issues, many people tried several copies to get one that focused properly. Avoid the version 1 at all costs, and If you can get a guaranteed good copy of v2 or the OS version, second hand and cheap it's might be worth it, but tread carefully.
I’m only interested in the OS model. From the couple of things I’ve read, it’s supposedl a great lens (and different optical formula from the previous non-OS versions).
Would just like to hear from actual owners, as opposed to web reviews.
I have had the Sigma 50-150mm F2.8 OS version about four years, after having the non-OS version II, and reading a ton of reviews on the OS version prior to purchase. The only reason I bought the OS version was for the OS. The non-OS version II was/is great. Try as you might, I doubt you will find anything but excellent reviews/comments about the OS version, which is what I found. Regarding comment about the non-OS version II, I also found it extremely sharp and quick-focusing, as well as much lighter than the OS version. I use/used each on Nikon DX cameras as my most frequently used lenses.
The OS version is sharp as a tack, as they say, focuses very quickly and accurately, and also works great with Sigma's 1.4 TC. I have shot sports, BIF's, events with quickly moving animals, etc. and the lens just performs perfectly, as long as I do my part. The 50-150mm F2.8 OS lens uses the same size barrel assembly as Sigma's 70-200 F2.8 OS lens, and it is significantly larger than the non-OS lens.
I have yet to hear of any actual owner of this lens having anything but very positive comments on its performance. I did have to send mine in to Sigma for re-calibration to AF properly on a new camera body I bought last year. I called Sigma, shipped it to them, and in a three day turnaround had it back fully functional and at no cost other than my shipping to them. I have several Sigma lenses and to me their customer service is superb.
If you can find one, I think you would be very satisfied, provided the focal length works for you. Good luck with it.
Thanks Rusty. I could’ve sworn I looked and didn’t see the OS version in the reviews, but alas I looked and there it was.
NRV, I actually tried the non-OS II a couple years back at a local shop. I even tried it with a kenko 1.4x and was surprised how well the test shots came out for being handheld. But they wanted way too much for the used copy. I’m seeing nothing but great praise for the OS version. Just hope I can find one come February.
50-150/2.8 will work great for me. I currently have a Tokina 11-16/2.8 and Sigma 17-50/2.8 OS. I also have a Tamron 70-300VC which I’ll be replacing with the Tamron 100-400VC or possibly the Sigma 150-600 C. The new 4 lens combination should keep me happy for quite a few years.
