Tony: I have both these lens. The 80-200 zoom is a great lens to have when you need that zoom capability. However, it is heavy, and can fall victim to shake hand held at slow shutter speeds. On the other hand the 180 is much lighter and is more forgiving when it comes to slower shutters speeds. What you gain in weight you lose in not having a zoom. But having said that, there are always monopods. They are both good lens to have. If the weight is not an issue get the zoom. Sam