[soLong]

Functionality of VR has to be tested. You also expect that thing to work if you need it one day. Not using it, but pay for it, is in my eyes as senseless as the opener (using your own words).

 

Since the VR needs energy to operate but the lens doesn't get any while in it's box, what should happen? The mechanic holding the VR lens element in place is kind of a claw which opens when powered to let the element move - that's my guess. And even with energy VR shuts down after a couple of seconds, if you're not longer push the release button halfway down or the AF-ON.

1: ….yes….i do rather wish that a more compact and less expensive version of a lens (without VR/IS) was available with the VR version….but, see another topic about the state of the industry….probably one version is all that is possible (so for most people the VR version)

 

2: I was thinking that at rest, when the turn off/turn on happens, the lens elements might be positioned correctly…it was just a thought.