Quote Originally Posted by skyline315
Any specific models that you would recommend on either end of the spectrum?
Yeah, the three I mentioned above!

Nikon 20mm f2.8 AF-D (probably have to find a good used one for the budget)
Nikon 24mm f2.8 AF-D (rebate good thru 12/31)
Nikon 180mm f2.8 AF-D (used one, again)

These are all good solid versatile choices. Any of them would be good for a lot of different subjects and situations.