Sigma's extreme range zoom for Sony A — the 50-500mm 'Bigma' covering everything from standard to super-telephoto.
The Sigma 50-500mm f/4-6.3 APO EX DG is affectionately known as the 'Bigma' — an extreme range zoom covering 50-500mm in a single lens. For Sony A mount, it provides an extraordinary 10x zoom range from standard to super-telephoto. The APO elements help control chromatic aberration across this enormous range. A unique lens with no competitors.
Optical performance is acceptable given the extreme 10x ratio. Centre sharpness is reasonable throughout. The APO elements control CA better than a non-APO design could. At 500mm, quality degrades but remains usable. No stabilisation — benefits from Sony body SR. The zoom range is genuinely unique — no other single lens covers 50-500mm on full frame.
Sony A mount. Filter thread is 86mm — very large. Weight is approximately 1,870 grams — heavy but understandable for 500mm reach. Build quality is solid EX grade. Tripod collar included and essential for extended use. The zoom lock prevents creep. Benefits from Sony SteadyShot body stabilisation. The OS HSM version for other mounts adds lens stabilisation.
Available at moderate used prices. Check zoom mechanism and AF. The 'Bigma' is a unique lens — nothing else covers this range. The Sony A mount version benefits from body SR. Best for versatile outdoor photography where carrying multiple lenses is impractical. The optical compromises are the price of unprecedented convenience.