I've come across a mint copy of Nikon's 24-85mm f3.5 to f4.5 IF-ED AF-S lens and thought I'd pass along my recommendation to those who might be looking for a light, full frame Nikkor zoom with good optical performance. This lens is now discontinued but appears to be generally better regarded than either Nikon's lighter current mid-range zooms: the 24-120 f3.5 to f5.6 VR and the 24-85 f2.8-4D IF (yes, they discontinued the AF-S and kept the D).
See
http://www.bythom.com/2485lens.htm Thom's upshot: "Optically, on a digital body this lens is excellent, while on a full frame body it still rates very good. Flare hasn't been a problem, especially when the supplied lens hood is used. There's less barrel distortion than I expected at the widest focal length, but it's still there. Stick a horizon towards the top or bottom of the frame and you'll get a very slightly curved line. While the lens focuses down to 1.2 feet at every focal length, this isn't a macro lens, and the results show that. When used at the close extreme at 85mm, for example, the results on my sample aren't quite as sharp and contrasty as they are at longer distances. You have to look carefully at prints to see the difference, but it's there. Overall, the 24-85mm AF-S is an optical bargain from Nikon: sharp, crisp images that are obtained with fast, sure focus usually command double or triple the price in the Nikkor lineup."
The lens isn't built like a tank, but is well constructed. Part of the allure of this lens comes from the fact that it
isn't a 24-70 f2.8. There is something very satisfying about having this zoom range with good optical performance in a very small and light package (part of that "something" is a smaller, lighter, easier to carry and less obtrusive camera). While it isn't made anymore, used copies can be found. I recently found my copy for $200 - so not only is it a small, light, and good performer, it is also can be quite a bargain. It originally shipped with a Nikon lens bag and HB-28 hood - replacement hoods can be found easily - I ordered one from B&H.
I noted in Michael's lens selection write-up awhile back that he'd picked up a 24-120 VR for general use. Michael - this is a little gem that you might want to try for your "walk out the door" lens.