wow.. great conversations guys.. from what I've researched tamron 70 200 competes well with canon 70 200 2.8.. it's a nice thing that 3rd party lenses give consumers on a tight budget like me other options. But I'm quite impressed with tokina lenses. I've tried it yesterday.. AF is not that bad, well built, excellent IQ (after downloading and viewed full screen). Ideas keep 'em coming cheers!