I have used the 17-40L lens. I was never impressed by that one beyond the build quality, contrast and the flare control. I agree that the Nikon wides are better. If only we had a 17mm tilt-shift
+1 for rent what you can't afford! The 14-24 is a hero lens and whatever inconvenience the weight and size it has will be balanced by not carrying and changing to other WA lenses. But just like the Canon 17mm TSE (wonderful for landscape if 17 is wide enough for you) the lens cap is ALWAY on unless you have your eye to the VF or are shooting.
Think of this like a pro assignment bring the best tools you need. You don't often get to Death Valley for 5 days. If you don't have a D800e rent that too. Maybe a Canon 5D Mk II/III and that 17mm TSE (shift the lens then take one half of the image an rotate the camera for the other half. stitch it and you have something very wide but with wrap around perspective-unique.
I bought the Nikon 14-24 a few years ago and as far as wide angle lenses go it's one impressive piece of kit. If I had to spend the money again I would buy a 17-35 f2.8 instead but as long as the 14-24 continues to serve me welk I won't regret buying it.
What I want to say is if you ask for the best, expect people suggesting just that. If you want to investigate alternatives or compromises don't ask. Just experiment.
