I use a Canon 40D and a Canon ef300mm L IS USM lens. I find that most every animal I encounter I can use that lens and get great results. It's not to long or to heavy it's pretty much just right. Most of the animals here I can get within a few yards to 75 yards and get a nice photograph. I prefer to take my "shots" in the 15-35 yard range. Just like hunting with a gun, you pretty much get one shot and you better make good on it. Those turkeys do not like the sound of the camera!