I obtained the Nikon D90 camera kit which included the 18-105 kit lens. I was not to sure what to expect with it being a kit lens but as part of the kit you get it for a good price. The zoom range is very nice and much better than your normal 18-55 etc kit lenses. Centre sharpness is very good for a lens of this price. Lens sharpness does fall off in the corners but that is to be expected and as you close down the aperture the corners do tend to sharpen up a bit. The VR may only be type 1 but it is great for low light shots. Do remember though the VR wont freeze movement in the pics but will help reduce camera shake. The lens does have distortion at the wide angle end but you can correct this with software so not a big deal. I like the pinch type front cap as well as the hood which I keep on all the time to protect the lens from knocks. All in all a very well regarded lens that offers great value for money.