Looking for a cheap zoom (less than $1000) in the 400mm range and came across the Tokina AT-X 840 AF D 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6. Reviews are varied on it. I've seen pics taken with it and they look OK IMO.
Was wondering if anyone has one and what they think of it?

I like that it is small & light, so can hand hold compared with say Sigma 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG OS HSM which I'm looking at also. Sigma has OS but shooting at 1:800 or faster and often panning - do you really need OS??

Lens will be used for junior footy, so daylight conditions, I use a Canon 55-250IS now, and getting nice shots, but need more reach at a cheap price/best value. Example best new prices I've found on Tokina are about $600 vs $900 for the Sigma.

Thanks