Yeah, I think people need to be careful they don't judge a lens before actually trying it themselves. I am always skeptical when people start to talk poorly about a lens they have never tried. Quality is subjective. I do think that for the money, you still have a good buy here.
Its a decent lens but shocking focus breathing, modern Sonys have breathing compensation but not with this lens which is not supported. Mainly an issue in video - well it makes it almost unusable unless you keep changing to MF.
It is a great lens for people who want a wide angle zoom when landscapes and video are not their main objective. In other words, a wildlife photographer like me. Although in all fairness I don't own this lens.
