One of the best lenses Nikon makes. I've never used it on a tripod; but the VR option is the best! Especially when hand-holding, in a church, natural light, zoomed all the way to 200 and you still get a crisp photo out of f2.8 with a 1/80 shutter speed!
The main purpose I have with this particular lens is when I'm shooting weddings. Every once in a while I have it on for something that is personal or during vacation, but it's a major commitment to have that thing on my camera (over 9 lbs when all put together) so I think long and hard before I pull it out.
When I shoot a wedding.... This lens is on at least one of my bodies 100% throughout the day (I shoot a wedding with 3 bodies).
It is expensive... but one of the best in the lens arsenal IMHO. If you can afford it.... do it.