....are pictured next to 300 f/2.8 IS MkI + 2xTC MkIII in order to appreciate better how small that 600mm combo is compared to the biggest EF lenses. (See the last picture below.) With hoods on, the size difference is even more striking. However, what really matters is the weight difference. Despite a major 600 II weight reduction, the 300 f/2.8 IS MkI + 2xTC MkIII is significantly lighter and less awkward to carry and use.
Obviously, the combo is only f/5.6, and its AF response is sadly lacking, however, its key strengths are:
* relatively small size/weight,
* very good IQ, and
* if you buy it used, the combo is almost 1/3 of the new 600 II price.
How good is IQ of 300 f/2.8 IS MkI + 2xTC MkIII ? Make no mistake about it, it is not on the 600 II level. However, I am very pleased with it. ( See three example images below, all shot at f/5.6) You just can not get 600mm which would be lighter and better at the samer time. Granted, 400 DO + 1.4xTC gives 560mm f/5.6 and it is quite bit lighter than the subject combo, but the IQ doesn\'t compare. In fact, the subject combo probably has better IQ than 400 DO bare.
Canon have done a real good job with the MkIII TCs, no two ways about it. I have become quite a convert and a believer into the use of these new TCs, and I would like to share my enthusiasm with those who may not have the budget for the big guns, particularly the MkII ones.
No reason to feel handicapped there, I firmly believe 300 f/2.8 IS MkI + 2xTC MkIII is a very good wildlife photography tool.
Oct 19, 2012 at 03:47 PM
Previous versions of PetKal's message #11054037 « 600 f/4 II and 800 f/5.6....... »
in order to appreciate better how small that 600mm combo is compared to the biggest EF lenses. (See the last picture below.) With hoods on, the size difference is even more striking. However, what really matters is the weight difference. Despite a major 600 II weight reduction, the 300 f/2.8 IS MkI + 2xTC MkIII is significantly lighter and less awkward to carry and use.