I have just purchased within the last month two Nikon lenses, one being a new 16-85 and the other a refurb from Nikon the 70-300g VR ED . What I 'm trying to find out is, my 16-85 has slight play in the focusing ring. I returned the first one and got another and still has play. I have been calling Nikon about this issue and I finally sent it in for repair, after about two weeks I get it back, just like it was when I sent it in. I again called Nikon and they suggested to send it back in. My question to them was why didn't they fix it while they had it, I sent in a letter describing the issue, and I was told they may not have received the letter in the shop. This obviously left me a little disappointed in Nikon. I kind have lost interest in the equipment. After three times this is not right. Has anyone heard of this or experienced this play in the focus ring. The 70-300 has a very tight zoom ring to the point it doesn't turn smoothly, it kind of sticks if turned slowly by hand, it also makes a noise when moved back and forth gently, Nikon said that was ball bearings ). So, not sure what to do, give up or give in and send them back. Any feedback would certainly help.. thanks. G.