I have been waiting for this 300mm lens with VR. I so nearly purchased the earlier non-VR version, and I´m sure I would not have been disappointed; however having VR makes this so much more useable, and a pleasure to use at that. The most impressive thing, though, is the weight. It´s so light compared with anything else that gives you this reach. I find the handling is also superb, feeling well balanced and easy to work with on my D800. The optional RT-1 tripod collar is available. I´ve got one for my 70-200 f/4, but in all honesty you don´t need it. You might think you need one, but you know you don´t...you know what I mean! This lens is so, so sharp, even wide open. I´ve tried to see an improvement around f/8-f/11, but I can´t - you just alter the depth of field. The bokeh is wonderful - Very smooth. Not experienced any possible circular flare issues yet, but we´ll see how successful Capture NX-D is at improving this, when the time comes. I´ll be interested to read what others say about this, and whether it proves to be a huge problem. I hope not - This is a fantastic lens and I´m pleased to have it in the bag!