It doesn't LACK a vertical grip, it's design was MEANT not to have a vertical grip in the first place. As mentioned, you want a camera with vertical grip, you have the D100 and D200 as options.fatjp said:Get what you can afford. What bad or good is up to you to over-come and take advantage.
Me using D50, find it having what i need but lack of vertical grip cos i take portrait.
+1 to D50, but seriously get a 350D or a D2X will bring you a longer way ;p
Personal view
And pray tell, how will getting a 350D or D2X bring you a longer way?