I've never tried the lens before, but based on reviews the VR3 is a good alternative for its bigger brother, especially if you (i) have a limited budget; (ii) are doing birding photography.
However, for wedding and portraits, it will be nicer to have the F2.8. SoI guess it depends on what you usually shoot

Malayan Pit Viper- Calloselasma rhodostoma by Ji Tan, on Flickr

The Malayan pit viper is often regarded as one of the most medically hazardous snake in SE Asia, causing thousands of disfiguring and crippling bites every year (although envenomation mortality is low).

This snake has a tendency to stay motionless when approached and has superb camouflage among dried leaves. It also has a very unpredictable and aggressive temperament so will not hesitate to bite when threatened. Combined with it's close proximity to humans (drawn to rats), these are what make a really deadly snake. It exemplifies the tragic consequences that occur when a "bad tempered" venomous snake collides with expansion of human activities in nature.

*Caution! This is a very dangerous and unpredictable snake. Do not attempt to approach one without strictly controlled safety measures.

Sample by Evan S.H. Quah.
Photo setup and information by Chan Zi Yang.


More on Macro Photography here: PixelsDimension
Check out Malaysia's wildlife here: WildLife Malaysia

Gong Xi Fa Cai sifu

Tried removing and reattaching the lens?