Wanted to get some opinions on the Nikon Telephoto 300mm f/2.8n ED(IF) AF Autofocus Lens VS. the VR version of the lens. I have found this lens very cheap in great condition and cant decide if I should jump on it or wait till I find a vr at a somewhat decent price.

How is the quality of it vs the vr version?

How does it handle a 2x converter?

ect.

Im going to be using it for surf photography.

Very cheap? Define very cheap? Are you talking about the AF-S version for cheap or the AF-i. They are very different. If you've found a good copy of the AF-S version minus VR, I would not hesitate for a moment to get it. That's the version I bought as VR meant zero to me on that lens. The shutter speeds I need when shooting on that 300 negate the VR anyway.

As for using a 2.0x extender on it, you're pushing your luck. The 1.4x, certainly. The 1.7x is pretty good from what I've seen and heard. The 2.0x is a crapshoot. If you are shooting surfing as a hobby, get the 300 and the 1.7x and call it a day. If you are getting paid for this, buy the 500 or 600. You'll be much happier.

The 300 --2 is the best lens nikon and canon make the 2x ?? buy a 600mm. If you are going to shoot the 300 all the time buy the vr if it is a lens for 50 % buy the lens you found also if it is at a great price buy it then sell it when you find a great vr

it is not the af-s version. Found it for 1300. Usd.

I think I may be leaning more towards the 500 f4.

Possibly.

I can't seem to find many deals on this lens. Does anyone know and ideas of decent places or forums.

I have already searched

Adorama
BH
And KEH

If it's not AF-S, you don't want it. The 300 historically has been the piece of glass that separates the pros from the joes. They are expensive, and they are worth it. The 400, 500, and 600 are no different. You won't find them at much of a discount anywhere. The old AF-i versions were slow and didn't sell well, or hold any value. That is why you are finding them cheap.