I need a new lens!!!!

[Outdoorsman]

Hey all! I'm looking for a new lens in the 70-300 or 100-300 range for less than $400 with hood included. Basically I need the 300 end more than anything. But I'm reading mixed reviews about certain lenses. I want something with good resolution at the long end and no more than f/5.6 max aperture. I would like the Canon 100-300 USM for various reasons, but some people really hate it and others say it's ok. Right now I'm using a Sigma 70-300 f/4-5.6 APO Macro Super. It does great for closeups, but as a macro- type lens, it is horrible at greater distances.
I don't need IS, but the ring-type USM is a must. And the 5.6 max aperture. Any suggestions?

[another view]

Life is full of compromises... Most lenses of this type tend to be a little soft at the long end. I have a Tokina 80-400 (newer one with tripod mount) and it's very good to 200 or so but starts to get a bit soft over 300. Maybe you can live with that - don't shoot it past 300 if you can help it. Minimum aperture is f5.6, but it doesn't have a USM type motor in it. It's about the price range you're looking for or maybe a little more. Watch for rebates on it.

[Lemming51]

- Tack sharp at 300mm
- ring-USM
- <$400

Pick 2, you can't have all 3.

Look used for discontinued EF 100-300 f/5.6L. Clunky push/pull, slow/noisy arcform af motor, rotating front element, but you won't find a sharper 300mm lens for less than $1000 (or maybe $900 - Sigma 100-300 f/4 EX HSM).

Otherwise the EF 100-300 f/4.5-5.6 USM is about the best compromise going. May or may not be sharper at distances than your Sigma 70-300 APO, but non-rotating front element gives it the nod in my book.