Hi Richard,


>I guess activate VR then depress the shutter release button
>halfway to compose and frame, then turn it off before
>actuating the shutter. Not easy and would take some
>dexterity!

The problem with that strategy is that when you release the shutter VR will activate and won't have enough time to reach equallibrium resulting in a blurry image.
If you don't want to use VR, turn it off.
If you do want to use VR and the AF On button to focus, make sure you press and hold the shutter release button half way to allow the VR to stabilize before releasing the shutter. Yes, it requires holding both buttons down, or you can release the AF On button if your subject is static, but you have to keep the shutter release button pressed half way until you release the shutter.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty