[physicsguy]

Just to add a bit to what has been said above. I do own the VR model. I originally looked hard at it because I had a 200mm lens for the D50 and frequently wished I had something longer. While it costs more than the non-VR model, apparently the optics are also improved because it is reputed to be pretty sharp. I don't use it a whole lot but when I have had the need it has been a really fine lens. It is the only VR lens I own and I am really happy this particular lens is VR, if find it very useful. I also think it focuses very quickly and accurately on my D200. If the Thom Hogan review had not been referenced already, I would have recommended it. Anyway, I have felt that it was worth the expense. Since you won't be buying it for a while, you can watch for it used. The only reason I would give mine up would be to get something faster and I really haven't found that needed up to this point.