I ended up getting the 16-35 f4 VR. It is extremely sharp and the first time I have been able to hand hold down to 1/20 and get sharp shots. I didnt test lower... yet.
I had bought the 17-55 f2.8 but after shooting with it at the car show I really was not happy so I am returning it, also it is a DX lens and I was a little wary of not getting a lens that I could grow with. I also stuck the 16-35 on the D600 for a bit in the store just to make sure I liked it and was near amazed. That said, no not get this lens if you use your pop up flash, this lens is long and you will end up with half moon shapes in your frame. other than that after a half day of shooting with it I am pretty dang happy so far. Now I just need a FF camera that will really show if the ability. Bodies come and go but a lens CAN be forever.