I have scoured the net for a zoom lens to use on my D70 Nikon. I believe about 100-300mm would be just fine. At this time, I am hesitant to go for the 300 telephoto without zoom and need advice!! I need advice big time. Nikkor offers a zoom but the one I see often is a cheap lens and I doubt the performance. So, what to do! I need advice from you who have and do use 300mm or so for nature shots. Is zoom the way to go or better a dedicated 300mm? I hesitate on the non-zoom since the digital equivalent is 450mm and I want to be "less close" at times. Budget is limited but under perhaps $800 US will work(dreaming!). I suspect but "do not know" if manual focus is generally used at 300mm or so. I would suspect MF is best but a lens with digital compatible stuff would be nice. I have the tripod and head...need the lens to get the little "eastern phoebe" up close and other critters. Frustrated...that is TomDart at the moment. I want a lens and will save for it but which one? Helpful advice is really appreciated.(even if from the south, USA, I did manage to say "frustrated" and not flusterated! : )