Which lens combo for my D40???

[AMDnut]

I want to get a new lens soon but wanted to figure which combo to go with. I have narrowed it down to the following:

Combo #1
Nikon 16-85mm VR
and
Nikon 70-300mm VR

or

Combo #2
Sigma 17-70mm
and
Nikon 55-200mm VR

Which would you go with or do you prefer another option?

Also, should I just keep the kit lens and get an 18-135mm for an all around lens? I actually prefer the first combo but the second is cheaper and will be very close with a little less reach...

Opinions please, thanks guys! :)

[Rooz]

what do you want to shoot with the combo in particualr ?
i would go with option 1 FWIW.

[K1W1]

Can't see the point in keeping the kit lens, getting an 18-135 and also one of those combos. That would mean that you would have 3 lenses that would cover the 18-70 (roughly depending on the combo) range.

For the second time today I agree with Rooz. Option 1 but as you say that is the most expensive.

For the third time today I agree with Rooz. What exactly do you shoot? It may be that the 16-85 plus 55-200 will serve you or the 17-70 plus 70-300 but it really depends on where your interests lie.

[Rooz]

i agree with Rich.

[K1W1]

Looks like we are in agreement then. :D

[AMDnut]

Thanks for the ops guys, sorry so long getting back here.

I normally am OK with the 18-55 but would like a little more zoom from time to time. I normally shoot the family and venture off to shoot some minor scenic shots. Flowers, buildings, my kids, etc. but would like to have the 16-85mm VR option to help a bit. I am thinking that a combo of the 16-85mm for my all around lens but getting the 55-200mm for the zoom I occasionally need.

I am intrigued by the Sigma as it is a faster lens I believe.... but from what I read, the Nikon 16-85mm is a little gem.

I may start with the 55-200mm VR and do some more reading to decide between the other 2! :-)