I'm guessing that this won't happen, but I'm looking to trade my DA* 50-135mm f2.8 for a Sigma or Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 + 1.4x TC on it. My bet is that I'll probably have to sell the DA* and then buy after. Figure it's a fair trade as the 70-200mm goes for ~£400GBP, TC is ~£120 and my DA* should fetch high £500's / low £600's given it's condition - but as I'm looking for a straight swap it's could be a deal for someone so why not try

Other interesting swaps + cash going one way or the other would also be considered - but as you can see I'm looking for fast long glass.

My DA* is stunning optically (pick of the litter in fact), mint condition on the body, and I've got the box, soft case, and documents. The only issue is that I had to repair the lens hood with super glue so there is a whiteish mark on the bottom of the hood. New hoods go for, I think, £20ish, and can be arranged if the white marks are a problem. I'll go nuts with photo's of the lens if there is any interest.

So... on that note let me know if you're interested!

Also - how would the siggy 100-300mm f4 w/1.4x TC on it compare to the bigma? It's a 420mm f5.6 zoom, and I'd imagine the weight would be similar.

Huge warning for you sending your drive back. Often manufacturers don't guarantee that you'll get your data back - what they normally do is just send you a brand new unit and junk the one you sent them. I'd be hesitant to send them anything and if the ebay solution doesn't work I'd probably go to a local computer store and see what they say next.

How come the Sigma 120-400 would be heavier than the Tokina 80-400mm? Is the siggy a lot faster @ 400mm?

At the very least this thread has made me very sceptical of ever buying from Ffordes!! That's EX+? If there are any reps from Ffordes on here right now, please speak up now or forever hold your piece.

Holy crap - 1000mm handheld @ 1/60th? Not bad!

The 2nd bird is really impressive. The lovely doggie and 1st bird are more like what I expected with a 2x TC on it. Thanks for taking the time to do that Mike, it's much appreciated!

Money sent!

Any chance of posting a shot taken with the 70-200mm attached to a 2x converter?