I agree totally I wish I had the 18-200 vr, but just can't swing it right now. It is a great piece of glass that can do about anything but scratch your back.
Chris Johnson Nikon Samurai # 30chrisjohnsonpic.com
Nikon D2Xs, Nikon D50, SB-800, AF Nikkor 80-200 D ED f2.8, AF Nikkor 50 D f1.8, AF Nikkor 18-55 G ED f5.6
I have a 18-200 VR and that's my first suggestion. It's the only lens I've used with the D300 up till now.
I would have no problem in putting the 18-70 on the D300. It's half the price, slightly better optically but it doesn't have such a big range.
In fact I think I'm going to use my D300 mostly with the 17-35 f2.8 and 28-70 f2.8. I find these lenses have even better quality than the others but they are rather big and heavy.
I don't have the 17-55 f2.8 but that seems to be the best choice.
Charles
Nikon D800, D7200, Sony RX100m3
Not buying any more gear this year. I hope
Would be helpful if we knew what type photography interest you most.
Don't forget about the Gallery. Are your photos there??
Nikon Samurai #13
"A photographer is known by what he shows not by what he throws. The best photographers have the biggest trash cans." Quote from Nikon School sometime in the early 1970's.
18-200 VR is a good GP lens however I find the photos to be a little soft. If money is no object I would go for the 70-200 F2.8 VR very sharp and fast. a little heavy but a great pro lens. I would also think about the 24-70 F2.8 although I don't have this one yet (on order) I read some great reviews.