Tamron SP AF 180mm f/3.5 LD (IF) user reviews

I had this lens for 4.5 years now, of which the last three were on digital. I primarily shoot insects, and that lens is a true blessing. Not only because of the incredible reach it provides on a crop sensor camera (it is a near equivalent of a 300mm lens) but also because when used between F/5.6 and F/16 the optical quality of this lens leaves absolutely nothing to be desired. In fact, the pictures taken with it have a certain quality to them, so that I can tell them with certainty from the ones taken with my other two macro lenses (Tamron 90mm and Canon 60mm). However, the build does not inspire great confidence in that the lens feels light but not sturdy and will obviously not survive any rough treatment. Also, the autofocus is quite slow, so I usually pre-focus manually then engage the autofocus and "touch-up" a split second before firing the shutter. After years of heavy use the autofocus motor sometimes stalls which has something to do with the auto/manual clutch inside the lens operated by the movement of the focusing ring. Also the rotating front ring is a nuisance when I use the ring flash and I wish it could be disconnected. These are however minor issues given the quality you get for so little money (compared to a camera manufacturer's lens).

I wanted a lens for butterflies and dragonflies that would be an improvement on my Sigma 70-300mm zoom.
I do not like zooms as they are not as good as prime lenses FACT. My Canon L series 400mm with extension tubes is superb but I cannot get close enough for the smaller species. Reading several reviews this seemed the best Macro lens for my purpose. That is what it is, a Macro lens. Results at 3 inches from the lens hood are unbelieveably wonderful. However at 2 foot distance it was not as good as the Sigma 70-300mm zoom. Imagine my dissapointment. I tried several tests to make sure I had done nothing wrong. The Tamron 90mm macro is as good at infinity as it is close up, (I have tested several becouse these vary slightly). I expected the 180mm to do the same, but no.

For me this limits this lens to very tame or dead subjects, of which there are very few of the former and I am not interested in the latter.

I sold it at a loss on Ebay without any serious use.

Summary: Wonderfull up to 12 inches then drops off to be no better than a consumer lens.
Build quality and appearance exude class. Focus is slow.

10 out of 10 as a true macro but be very very aware.