[CurtEgerer]

As an alternative to a full-frame SLR, take a look at the Olympus OM-D micro four thirds (MFT) series. I shoot with an obsolete 16MP 2013 OM-D e-M1 with a vertical grip and a 45-150mm lens (35mm equiv is 90-300mm) for birds and cars. I've probably got $400 into the entire setup. It's an extremely well-built metal camera and water-sealed. They are very compact and lightweight relative to an SLR. The telephoto lenses are the greatest advantage over full-frame SLRs for a bargain camera because they are double the focal length and a fraction of the cost.





If you really wanted to step up the game you could buy the Panasonic-Leica 100-400mm (200-800mm ) for $800 (interchangeable with Olympus). Check the price on an 800mm for full-frame