Secondhand Superstar

I’m after a fast telephoto lens that stretches a bit further than the usual 70-200mm, without breaking the bank. What would you recommend? Barry Carnes, via email

Jason says… Fast glass is expensive. For example, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/2.8 G ED VR II costs a whopping £4900/$5500. I’d go for a secondhand Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4D IF-ED, which also undercuts the new Nikon 300mm f/4 PF (Phase Fresnel) for price, the latter costing £1500/$2000.