Ken, I want to thank you. A year ago managed to snatch this beauty for less than 150 bucks and it's absolutely mind-blowing crazy. I don't know what kind of magic happens inside this glass, but the way it delivers light to the camera sensor is just unreal.
Hi bro, On your recommendation I also bought this lens, looked very good and I am very happy with it. You were absolutely right about this lens. I also have the AFS version, but this one is indeed a lot better. Better color rendition also. Thanks again for your good advice. You are someone who knows what you are talking about. God bless.
I bought one of these based mostly on this recommendation. I find manual focus only absolutely fine and personally I actually find it very enjoyable on a lens like this that is designed for manual focusing. This lens really is great optical quality and I would say this is a solid recommendation for anyone looking for a good telephoto who doesn't have endless money to spend. Paid £180 ($260) including all customs charges and shipping etc! Very happy with it and thanks Ken for the recommendation!
300mm f4.5 AIS - 6 elements, 7 blades versus 300mm f4.5 AIS ED IF - 7 elements (one is ED), 9 blades Which one Angry in terms of sharp image and better color depth & rendition?? From everything that you've preached, less glass is better, so the 6 element 300mm AIS would deliver better photos? Or does having ED glass and the 9 blades in the 300mm ED IF deliver better images?
found a good deal on this lens the 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S, but also found the AF Nikon 300mm f/1:4 How does it compare you think. it looks solid, like the Nikon 80-200mm
Just acquired one off Ebay for $85.00 shipped. Outside is used well has LA Times engraved into the lens tube so my guess it's an old battle ax from some press photographer of the past. Glass is clean inside and rear, front has some tiny marks noting that will ever show up on an image. It was advertised as a Ai-s 300mm f4.5, looking at the photos it was clearly an ED version. Wound up with an ED IF, of course no lens tripod collar. This lens is stupid sharp.
This lens is NUTS! A masterpiece. Steady tripod, focus peaking and this lens = the most fun you could possibly have for the price. I'm also using it on a crop sensor and it performs fantastically. A picture quality that is probably equal to big cost and size new lens or maybe it's even better. Yeah, it's f4.5 but who cares. It's small for a 300mm so easily portable. Wide aperture would make it giant size. Also consider that as sensor technology improves, slower lenses become much more useful. If the glass and build is quality, the lens is good. This one easily fits in a bag to take anywhere but it is still superb build quality. This is definitely an "insane if you don't buy". This is also the first lens I bought purely from seeing one of Ken's videos so I will send a small donation. There are too many channels on youtube not giving honest advice. They are mostly singing praises for all the latest gear with a link to buy. This would be OK if they actually used the gear and found it to be the best for their needs but this is obviously impossible if a channel is pimping out masses of gear. Thomas Heaton gets gear for free but the stuff you see in his videos is the stuff that he uses. I used to buy audio gear. The pimping of expensive and crap audio gear is exactly the same but if you get in early before the old good gear is truly appreciated, it is a great investment. Keep your GAS under control and carefully consider every purchase. I can confirm that this lens is an absolute no brainer.
Just an update here. There is a non IF version of this lens that has the gold ring. It turns out that my version is in fact the one Ken has in the video which would explain the beautiful focusing. It was not advertised as such though. I have edited my message accordingly.
Is the Nikon 300mm f/4 ED-IF AF much better than this one. The metal tank built after this one. If i can get it for pretty cheap or is the quality and IQ basically identical.
I have the 6 element version. The sharpness and micro contrast blow my mind. When I test this with the 180 2.8, zeiss 100 mm macroplanar and 85 planar every one is spectacular. Same with the 35 distagon and 58 voigtlander. And they work on both digital and film. I photo an oak tree in my backyard ... thanks ken for the micro contrast test subject... and this 300 is stunning for black and white.
With how easy this thing is to focus, I found it useful for larger birds in flight when paired on a D500. Focus confirmation on the D500 with this lens is actually pretty reliable.
Hey Ken, I just ran across a Nikkor 400mm F5.6 that is kind of like this at a thrift store. They got it with a bunch of old nikon lenses and stuff. What do you think about it?
Absolutely love this lens but this f-er is HEAVY! Definitely not something you want to be using without a mono-pod or tri-pod for long stretches. It's also not the sharpest 300mm wide open but hell if it doesn't add a ton of character to an image and the colors are absolutely stunning.
What do you think of the AF Nikkor 300mm f/4 ED with 8 glass elements? I have it and I like it, but do you think I should sell that and buy this AI-S 300mm f4.5?
mautsukuda sure thing, keep what you got, its a great AF ED IF Nikkor !!! the cost of YOUR lens and THIS lens however is a big diff., which is why this one is recommended. also this lens is a DREAM MF lens, sooo silky smooth, but of course your AF is better in that arena.
Theoria Apophasis Hey Ken, I actually made a mistake and bought the AI version instead of the AI-S. Should I return/sell it and get the AI-S one, or should I just keep it? Is the AI just as good as the AI-S version?
Hey Ken I just picked one of these lenses up and put it on my D7100. It is nice and sharp but I don't seem to be able to focus past about 100 yards - the focus ring stops past infinity but still not there. Is that fixable?
Which 300 2.8 w/ autofocus is the best? I need to get one for some contract work in sports/races, and I'm thinking the AFS-II would be the best since it's the lightest model.
Hi Ken, I happen to own the AF Nikkor 300mm F/4 ED IF. Is the optical quality somewhat similar to the Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S aside from the autofocus vs non AF? Nice video ! , somewhat hard to find that Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S in europe. cheers Tim
***** theyre indistinguishable optically except the ED IF has better saturation and looks richer due to simpler optical construction. the MF ED IF is hard to find pretty much period. :) however Japan has plenty to sell
Theoria Apophasis Do I really NEEEEED ED IF for better saturation and richer looks. I want the length, but don't want to spend a lot of money for it and let's face it, since I don't make $$ taking photos......I just answered my question. Thanks Angry!
teh IF is like focusing with hot butter, its just awesome. well your premise is valid to be sure......any of the AI AIS 300mm 4.5 (there are 5 diff ones) are all excellent, but a couple of them (the IF) are "best"
Just checking in the off-case you've ever tried it, but any thoughts on the Tokina 300mm f/2.8 AT-X SD AI-s? I mean, it's double the price of this guy, but faster. Not that I *need* faster, just curious.
Have you tried this nikon 300 f4.5 ed if with a modified nikon tc16a that focuses manual lenses on either a nikon d500 or d700? it would give you an intetesting 900mm or 480mm equivalent.
Yes the 300/4.5 ED IF is cheap (as are many MF lenses now), built like a tank, compact and easy to focus with one finger. Sharpness was very good but no match to my 300/4 ED IF AFS. Used with the TC-14E II it also gave me a 420/5.6 that maintained it's high performance even wide open. For me, fast AF is also a big plus in shooting birds in flight.
Hey Bro! Just wanted to thank you for bringing up these absolutely AMAZING lenses from the past!!! My favorite of all time for filming motion picture for Nat. Geo. / Discovery Channel, etc… has been the 400mm f3.5 that I convert. The only problem is that at times it was actually to sharp! If one can imagine that! How these lenses had to resolve for image resolution on film I feel supersedes most digital cameras out there! I couldn’t believe it when you brought up that lens! I said FINALLY!!!! SOMEONE THAT ACTUALLY KNOWS WHAT THE HELL THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!!! I just purchased the 300mm f4.5 ED IF last night because of your review! You are enlightening people to some amazing equipment out there that most people don’t have a clue about! It shows your knowledge and professionalism, as well as your extensive background! Thank you for your content! Keep it up Brother!!! Cheers!!!
I have a chance to purchase a 400mm ED f5.6 Nikon lens as well as a 18mm f4 Nikon lens as well as a 105mm f4 Nikon... anything you can tell me about them? I have a GH3 camera so the MM ratings would double with the crop factor on the micro 4/3 sensor... I have tested all of them and they seem real nice.
niceprguy2 18mm f4 is a great rare bird, find it cheap? BUY IT. 105mm f4 nikkor is worth about $170, great lens. nikkor 400mm ED f5.6 is a lousy pooper, is it VERY CHEAP? Otherwise no.
Theoria Apophasis I should be able to get the 18mm f4 for $350 and the 105 f4 for $150... I will pass on the 400mm then unless they want to sell it for $200... I think they want $350. Thanks for the info
Ken I found this lens on eBay for $225.00. This lens was sold to me with Hoya 72mm Circular Polarizer Glass Filter, both front and rear lens caps, and the lens collar. Its getting hard to find this lens on the internet. Most of gold ring 300mm I have seen are beat up with the collar missing, and sellers are asking crazy prices for that lens. Now I need to got and shoot with this cool lens. Images shot I will share with you after I use this lens. Thanks again for telling me about this smooth focus lens.
Nice! Did you get the one with the gold ring? I'm looking at getting one but I'm seeing mostly the AI or AI-S version. I'm wondering if there's a difference.
Harry Trejo I got the version with the Gold ring. The focus ring is very smooth. Like Ken said you can use one finger to focus on your subject. Sorry I have been busy with Wedding shoots to post test shot images.
Love your videos. They inform me and make me laugh. What could be better. Ok have found a mint version at a good price of this lens and am thinking of buying it. I shoot a lot of birds in flight and am wondering if I will struggle with this lens because there is no auto-focus. Imagine it will be perfect for shoots with less action. Any advice or experience would be appreciated.
Just listened to video again and you do say it is not for sports or action shots. Think though I will get it cause it sounds such a wonderful lens for other things.
Ken, would you also recommend this lens so highly when you attach it to a X-T2 with a Metabones? I´m in doubt what to buy for telephoto >200mm? I don´t need the zoom of an XF 55-200, but maybe it fits better, when both lenses are from Fuji. Which one would you prefer, if a price doesn´t matter? I know, the Nikkor is like a 450mm at the Fuji.
Gotta ask. Are you doing these videos on the top of a mini refrigerator or something? Looks like it. Oh! And yeah, would like some thoughts on the 80-200 2.8 as well if you can find the time.
Brent Long you noticed that ehh!!! hehheehe!! sure thing, what about ye ole tank 80 200 2.8 ???? got 2 of em,.....great stuff, slow AF , perfect wedding lens, best image of all the fast glass Tele zooms. i recently made a video on said lens.
Theoria Apophasis Thanks. First thought is that you misspoke in the video about the 80-200 and called it a 70-200??? I'll check, but I thought I saw all the videos concerning this long zoom range. You spoke in the video about a Nikkor 70-200 tele-zoom non VR, but I couldn't find one anywhere. Ohh!!! Now I see that the annotation on the video correctly identified the lens as the 80-200. I always close those without reading! Oops!
Theoria Apophasis Actually I think you had it all right. You ranted a bit on the VRII and I may have assumed you were trying to contrast that with the VR I as opposed to the 80-200. Happy to know your thoughts as I'd like to save a bit of cash and don't need anything particularly fast. And . . . that's what I get for watching 3AM videos!!
hehhehe, well im all about trying to help folks and save them money, namely on lenses, .....ive owned or used them all from Nikon and many Nikon mount alternatives.
unfortunately the price for the ED IF here in Canada skyrocketed and there's nothing less than 400 dollars..I couldn't spend much on it so I snagged a Nikon 300mm 4.5 AIS (latest regular model) mint conditions for 180 bucks..hopefully it is as good as the one u recommended
I have an old Russian Tair-3 300mm f/4.5 that's surprisingly good - and it only has 3 elements. I have it as part of the photosniper set, which is crazy.
c312eal its nearly as good, almost......its ALWAYS the same price as the ED IF is used......... But it doesnt have that silky IF focus which is so dreamy, and it doesnt focus as close........also its aperture blades are less which reduces the beautiful specular highlights that the 9 bladed aperture does on the ED IF id say its about 80% as good over all .....and 100% as good optically.
Does AI-S lens work with Nikon F? thanks.The reason I ask is that some guy talked me into buying his Nikon F and it was old and the metering doesn't work but it was a classic so I just got it.
Hi angry Ken! thanks so much for your very enjoyable reviews. it's really time for me to make a donation and I will. the rest of you should too! I just picked up this beauty in mint condition and really looking forward to using it on my xt2. Q: there's such a plethora of Nikon teleconverters that I'm at a loss. do you have a recommendation? it would be cool if it handled both a 2x and 1.4x. thx again. Steve
Hey Ken, any thoughts on the 300mm f4 AF (NON S) version? Since it can sometimes even be had for under 300$, it's not much more than this AI-S lens and even has screw-type autofocus...
I got the 135 because of your review and I absolutely L O V E it. Perhaps you can give me a heads up before your next lens review so that I can not have to pay twice as much for some of this sweet old glass ;)
hehehehehehehe!!!!!! either that or you could watch the videos very closely and POUNCE!!!! Im glad youre so happy!!! Hey, i KNEW owning everything nikon produced in the past 30 years (or using it) would help people out!!!
todd Allen the NEWEST one is $1500, its an AF version, and F4, its not made as well, nor as sharp the other one, this one: www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/300ais.htm is a dirty girl, shes not internal focus, and NOT as sharp. and she has 6 aperture blades, unlike the one this video which has nine, and makes wonderful STAR patterns on reflected light. also the lens in THIS video focuses down to 8 feet!
I had the same question as to which one to get. Thanks for answering the question. I'm going to keep an eye out for the 300mm F/4.5 IF ED version with the gold ring. I appreciate all your advise sir.
You are the man! Thanks for another great video! If you're ever looking to sell some of your lenses, I would be interested in picking up one of your 135mm :P
Ken, does it matter image quality wise that the AI version of this lens is F22,7 blades while the one you're showing, the AI-S, is F32,9 blades in terms of image quality ? I would say no since their both ED lens but I defer to you.
Jasshands1 This ED IF is superior in several ways, including close focus, the AI version from 1977-1981 was produced has wee inferior optics, SAME PRICE as this one, so dont get it.
When I saw it on ebay, I was panicking to make sure all was good before hitting "By it Now." I thought there must be something wrong with it. But no, all was perfect.
Michael Wynkoop this lens is so amazing. The focus ring is so smooth. No effort to lock in the focus at all. Its my new Headshot lens. If you can take the time to get the shot framed and focus without rushing this is the lens I use.
Theoria Apophasis I was referencing this lense in this video, if it will work with a Nikon D5100, I am not a pro photog so I don't know what NON CPU metering is. I build computers and repair electronics but I don't keep up with the photo lingo.
Brian Megens its great, but its focus sucks by comparison, its not IF also it doesnt focus as close,...... image is just as good. but its ALWAYS the same price as the lens in this video, the ED IF therefore get the ED IF if you can
Deal done! Lens is optically in mint condition (only scratch on lens hood from bag), a true beauty, shot inside at night, hand hold 1/80 and results surprised me already. Can't wait to go in the field with it! Thanks again for awesome advice.
Ohhhh you dirty so and so!! you STOLE IT! heheeh Awesome price! Hey, im glad your happy!! take her outside and take a distance shoot and zoom in and see how STINKING SHARP it is its absurdly sharp :)
Ok, I've heard enough; I'm getting one! Quick question... There are a lot of 300mm AI-S's on ebay without the gold band. Is it the same lens? Most don't have the gold band but otherwise look identical. I don't mind spending the extra $50 for the gold band if that's the ticket, which is basically the difference on ebay. Probably your fault... ha ha. THANKS! Love the videos.
+Theoria Apophasis thank you very much! got mine today and it's in mint condition :-) tested it and it's BOOM SUPER SHARP!!! keep making great videos AWESOME.... thumbs up!
At 800yd the field of view for a 300mm lens on the D7100 sensor is roughly 57x39 meters, or 2244x1553 inches. So suppose you want to look at an object that is about 30x20 centimeters, or about 12x8 inches. On the D7100 sensor (6000x4000 pixels, or 24Mp), your object will use about 30x20 pixels. A digit requires a minimum of 3x5 pixels to be resolved. If you let only a pixel between two digits you end up with being able to pack 7 digits in 30 pixels. So basically Ken is saying here that this lens, if used correctly, is able to resolve up to the maximum possibile resolution of a 24 Mp digital camera. Checked on my copy and can confirm. It splits pixels on a D750 in the center, and if you manage to correctly focus the corners on a Nikon DSLR wide open, you get impressive sharpness there too. It weighs about 850g if you don't need the tripod collar, great colors, and very smooth out of focus. This is really a great piece of glass if your goal for a 300mm is portrait or landscape. However, today it costs almost as the AF. Its advantage is the low weight and size. Great advice here from Ken
***** concerts yes, sports no, not unless you have crazy madass manual focus quick skills (which took me years and years to get, as it would anyone). depends on the sport, basketball, no, soccer, yes, but only if you got skills. etc Hockey? hell no nothing really fast
Theoria Apophasis Thanks for the response! The prices have already been jacked up to 350, but there is a half the price version but it doesn't have the ED IF title, for 160, do you think it's worth it?
thats the OTHER lens, its same price usually, and ALMOST as good, but doesnt have internal focus, and its short focus range isnt as short. if its MINTY, its worth it for $160 ,that other AIS 300mm 4.5 is 95% as good. since its not the ED IF version.
Have possibly seen this lense for $260 though missing from the description is "IF" so I'm not certain whether if in fact it is the exact same lense in your video. I'm waiting on the sellers response. Would this lense often have omitted "IF" but really it's the same lense? Also not sure how many elements it has. It does do have the gold ring. Selling as used yet the condition is "Exc+++". Going by the pics i cant see any marks or frey.
I bought it and arrived today. No dust, no scratches, no dents, just excellent exterior quality. It looks new but description is used. Doesn't come with a lense collar though. Unfortunately the Japanese eBay store didn't answer my questions. Wanted to know if it was a reproduction model or copy of an original model. The round thing that pops forward shielding the lens has black felt inside presumably to stop it from dropping back. It appears new. I'm worried it might be a reproduction. It looks to perfect for something that stopped being manufactured years ago. Will need to locate your previous videos on inspecting 2nd hand lenses. Hope that will help me out.
On the same day I got this lens and a Tamron 300mm f2.8 (the green one). This lens just plain out performs that giant glass of the Tamron. Silk Sex and Sugar is the order of the day when this lens is deployed.
I bought this lens a couple mins ago from eBay Japan. 560 Australian dollars. I hope it’s not radio active. By the ways, the Mitakon 0.95 35 mm fuji not disappoints me at all. It stayed ok my xt2 permanently lol
Thanks really cool i being looking for a 300mm for takening photo of eagles,etc.I was thinking of getting a Sony a6000 with a lens converter fron Nikon to Sony
Alex Hu optically not really, it is however not able to focus as close, and its "pain" is that it isnt a internal focus, and isnt a pure silky joy to focus with ones pinky finger and SINCE it sells for just as much, better just to hunt down the ED IF
Theoria Apophasis Sigh...I need a class in reading. I usually am successful in following your advice, but in my excitement I mistakenly bought the non ED AI-S 300mm 4.5. It is from Japan and is in good shape with slight dust the only issue for $135 and $20 shipping. Erotically good focusing aside, will I get the same image quality as the lens you recommended?
they made 4 diff versions of the non-ED 300mm 4.5, theyre all awesome and just perfect. yes, you will, the AIS 300 4.5 is the same optically, i have 3 of same lumped in with the ED and the ED-IF the IF is only superior in that you can focus it easily with a pinkie finger, otherwise just the same.
Dude, just got one here in Euroland, 250 EUR, all included, if I buy in the states I would pay twice that, import and all kind of taxes and duties out of the yingyang. Should I buy a TC 201 with it, (60 EUR), worth it? I don't know. Anyway, thanks for the heads up angryman, worked again here in Euroland after the 135mm f/2.8 for 45USD :-) !!!
I fear the manual focus lens. With a little practice, is this lens usable for daytime candids and capturing packs of motorcycles cruising down the highway? I'm in love with the compression afforded by telephoto lenses. I used to have a Nikkor 70-300 f/4 - f/6.3 (I think it was) and was pleased with the quality images captured one overcast day but the variable aperture when tracking a football on a bright clear day for an afternoon started to piss me off because I kept having to adjust shutter speed or ISO to accommodate the forever changing aperture.
i have the 300mm already but its dark out and i need to get up early for work so gotta wait through a day of work to use it ugh ! and the 200mm is 2days away in the mail !! time to take some decent bird shots !
Ken, I want to thank you. A year ago managed to snatch this beauty for less than 150 bucks and it's absolutely mind-blowing crazy. I don't know what kind of magic happens inside this glass, but the way it delivers light to the camera sensor is just unreal.
Hi bro,
On your recommendation I also bought this lens, looked very good and I am very happy with it.
You were absolutely right about this lens. I also have the AFS version, but this one is indeed a lot better. Better color rendition also.
Thanks again for your good advice.
You are someone who knows what you are talking about.
God bless.
I bought one of these based mostly on this recommendation. I find manual focus only absolutely fine and personally I actually find it very enjoyable on a lens like this that is designed for manual focusing. This lens really is great optical quality and I would say this is a solid recommendation for anyone looking for a good telephoto who doesn't have endless money to spend. Paid £180 ($260) including all customs charges and shipping etc! Very happy with it and thanks Ken for the recommendation!
300mm f4.5 AIS - 6 elements, 7 blades
versus
300mm f4.5 AIS ED IF - 7 elements (one is ED), 9 blades
Which one Angry in terms of sharp image and better color depth & rendition?? From everything that you've preached, less glass is better, so the 6 element 300mm AIS would deliver better photos? Or does having ED glass and the 9 blades in the 300mm ED IF deliver better images?
I'd like to bump this question. What do you think about it Ken?
William Odevik
Would love to hear the opinion on the non ED version. See one for sale really cheap.
ED version is much better!
i found the 300mm f4.5 and the 135 f2.8 on craigslist for $150! i bought both no questions asked! they were both in PERFECT condition
found a good deal on this lens the 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S, but also found the AF Nikon 300mm f/1:4 How does it compare you think. it looks solid, like the Nikon 80-200mm
Just acquired one off Ebay for $85.00 shipped.
Outside is used well has LA Times engraved into the lens tube so my guess it's an old battle ax from some press photographer of the past.
Glass is clean inside and rear, front has some tiny marks noting that will ever show up on an image.
It was advertised as a Ai-s 300mm f4.5, looking at the photos it was clearly an ED version.
Wound up with an ED IF, of course no lens tripod collar.
This lens is stupid sharp.
This lens is NUTS! A masterpiece. Steady tripod, focus peaking and this lens = the most fun you could possibly have for the price. I'm also using it on a crop sensor and it performs fantastically. A picture quality that is probably equal to big cost and size new lens or maybe it's even better. Yeah, it's f4.5 but who cares. It's small for a 300mm so easily portable. Wide aperture would make it giant size. Also consider that as sensor technology improves, slower lenses become much more useful. If the glass and build is quality, the lens is good. This one easily fits in a bag to take anywhere but it is still superb build quality. This is definitely an "insane if you don't buy". This is also the first lens I bought purely from seeing one of Ken's videos so I will send a small donation. There are too many channels on youtube not giving honest advice. They are mostly singing praises for all the latest gear with a link to buy. This would be OK if they actually used the gear and found it to be the best for their needs but this is obviously impossible if a channel is pimping out masses of gear. Thomas Heaton gets gear for free but the stuff you see in his videos is the stuff that he uses. I used to buy audio gear. The pimping of expensive and crap audio gear is exactly the same but if you get in early before the old good gear is truly appreciated, it is a great investment. Keep your GAS under control and carefully consider every purchase. I can confirm that this lens is an absolute no brainer.
Just an update here. There is a non IF version of this lens that has the gold ring. It turns out that my version is in fact the one Ken has in the video which would explain the beautiful focusing. It was not advertised as such though. I have edited my message accordingly.
Huh?
Even seeing a new video of yours in a play list already makes me smile! Thanks!
Georg Arju. not me!!! i cant stand my own voice!!! LOL
thanks for the warm words
warm hugs!
Is the Nikon 300mm f/4 ED-IF AF much better than this one. The metal tank built after this one. If i can get it for pretty cheap or is the quality and IQ basically identical.
What do you think of the Nikkor 300 mm 4.5 ais. Is the only difference being not internal focus?
is non ai, non ed and non if version of 300mm 4.5 any good to buy at all .. it's really cheap?
The sock should be called 'TOENOFOTOS' lmao
deltafit OMFG !!!!!!! i like your twisted mind !
I have the 6 element version. The sharpness and micro contrast blow my mind. When I test this with the 180 2.8, zeiss 100 mm macroplanar and 85 planar every one is spectacular. Same with the 35 distagon and 58 voigtlander. And they work on both digital and film. I photo an oak tree in my backyard ... thanks ken for the micro contrast test subject... and this 300 is stunning for black and white.
With how easy this thing is to focus, I found it useful for larger birds in flight when paired on a D500. Focus confirmation on the D500 with this lens is actually pretty reliable.
Hey Ken, I just ran across a Nikkor 400mm F5.6 that is kind of like this at a thrift store. They got it with a bunch of old nikon lenses and stuff. What do you think about it?
Absolutely love this lens but this f-er is HEAVY! Definitely not something you want to be using without a mono-pod or tri-pod for long stretches.
It's also not the sharpest 300mm wide open but hell if it doesn't add a ton of character to an image and the colors are absolutely stunning.
Hi Ken, The 300mm with ED is so expensive 300$, the Ais non ED is 90$. Can i get the Ais non ED ?
What do you think about an 300/4.5 AI-S without ED IF for 280 bucks for an X-T2?
How does the 300 H 4.5 Non ED IF perform? Is it decent? I can get it for 60$ US,I will use it on a D7100 and not very often.
Is there a adapter for the Nikkor Q 135mm f2.8 to my Nikon D7100
Nope. You have to convert/file it
What do you think of the AF Nikkor 300mm f/4 ED with 8 glass elements? I have it and I like it, but do you think I should sell that and buy this AI-S 300mm f4.5?
mautsukuda sure thing, keep what you got, its a great AF ED IF Nikkor !!!
the cost of YOUR lens and THIS lens however is a big diff., which is why this one is recommended.
also this lens is a DREAM MF lens, sooo silky smooth,
but of course your AF is better in that arena.
Theoria Apophasis awesome thanks! Maybe I'll get the AI-S anyway. I do enjoy silky smooth manual focusing lenses!
Theoria Apophasis Hey Ken, I actually made a mistake and bought the AI version instead of the AI-S. Should I return/sell it and get the AI-S one, or should I just keep it? Is the AI just as good as the AI-S version?
no, youre fine! keep it :)
sorry, im really down and depressed and tired, i have to lay down.
Theoria Apophasis I'm really sorry to hear that, Ken. I hope you feel better! Get some sleep!
Hey Ken I just picked one of these lenses up and put it on my D7100. It is nice and sharp but I don't seem to be able to focus past about 100 yards - the focus ring stops past infinity but still not there. Is that fixable?
Great lens! Just bought it and im amazed how it performs! Thanks ken for another great lens to my collection! Inlakesh brother 🕉🕉🕉
Which 300 2.8 w/ autofocus is the best? I need to get one for some contract work in sports/races, and I'm thinking the AFS-II would be the best since it's the lightest model.
Has the price of this AIS ED 4.5 300mm gone up by chance?
Hi Ken,
I happen to own the AF Nikkor 300mm F/4 ED IF. Is the optical quality somewhat similar to the Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S aside from the autofocus vs non AF?
Nice video ! , somewhat hard to find that Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S in europe.
cheers
Tim
***** theyre indistinguishable optically except the ED IF has better saturation and looks richer due to simpler optical construction.
the MF ED IF is hard to find pretty much period. :) however Japan has plenty to sell
Theoria Apophasis Do I really NEEEEED ED IF for better saturation and richer looks. I want the length, but don't want to spend a lot of money for it and let's face it, since I don't make $$ taking photos......I just answered my question.
Thanks Angry!
teh IF is like focusing with hot butter, its just awesome.
well your premise is valid to be sure......any of the AI AIS 300mm 4.5 (there are 5 diff ones) are all excellent, but a couple of them (the IF) are "best"
67.00 bucks is what it cost me. I'll give it a run and see if I like it.
hell yes youll love it
Just checking in the off-case you've ever tried it, but any thoughts on the Tokina 300mm f/2.8 AT-X SD AI-s? I mean, it's double the price of this guy, but faster. Not that I *need* faster, just curious.
Have you tried this nikon 300 f4.5 ed if with a modified nikon tc16a that focuses manual lenses on either a nikon d500 or d700? it would give you an intetesting 900mm or 480mm equivalent.
Yes the 300/4.5 ED IF is cheap (as are many MF lenses now), built like a tank, compact and easy to focus with one finger. Sharpness was very good but no match to my 300/4 ED IF AFS. Used with the TC-14E II it also gave me a 420/5.6 that maintained it's high performance even wide open. For me, fast AF is also a big plus in shooting birds in flight.
Hey Bro! Just wanted to thank you for bringing up these absolutely AMAZING lenses from the past!!! My favorite of all time for filming motion picture for Nat. Geo. / Discovery Channel, etc… has been the 400mm f3.5 that I convert. The only problem is that at times it was actually to sharp! If one can imagine that! How these lenses had to resolve for image resolution on film I feel supersedes most digital cameras out there! I couldn’t believe it when you brought up that lens! I said FINALLY!!!! SOMEONE THAT ACTUALLY KNOWS WHAT THE HELL THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!!! I just purchased the 300mm f4.5 ED IF last night because of your review! You are enlightening people to some amazing equipment out there that most people don’t have a clue about! It shows your knowledge and professionalism, as well as your extensive background! Thank you for your content! Keep it up Brother!!! Cheers!!!
ken, should i buy this lens or the nikkor 200 f4 ais?
what have the quality of image?
Hi Angry,
would you suggest to use the lens with the tc-300?
(I bought the lens and the seller is offering me a tc-300 for 90Euro)
Already found your answer for the tc-20x: "more glass = more hell". I guess it applies also to the tc-30x.
I have a chance to purchase a 400mm ED f5.6 Nikon lens as well as a 18mm f4 Nikon lens as well as a 105mm f4 Nikon... anything you can tell me about them? I have a GH3 camera so the MM ratings would double with the crop factor on the micro 4/3 sensor... I have tested all of them and they seem real nice.
niceprguy2 18mm f4 is a great rare bird, find it cheap? BUY IT. 105mm f4 nikkor is worth about $170, great lens.
nikkor 400mm ED f5.6 is a lousy pooper, is it VERY CHEAP? Otherwise no.
Theoria Apophasis I should be able to get the 18mm f4 for $350 and the 105 f4 for $150... I will pass on the 400mm then unless they want to sell it for $200... I think they want $350. Thanks for the info
take the 105 and 18mm, and talk em down on the final price
Theoria Apophasis The prices I told you are Canadian funds, so 20% less than in the States.. Thanks again
whoops, well even better then :)
Ken I found this lens on eBay for $225.00. This lens was sold to me with Hoya 72mm Circular Polarizer Glass Filter, both front and rear lens caps, and the lens collar. Its getting hard to find this lens on the internet. Most of gold ring 300mm I have seen are beat up with the collar missing, and sellers are asking crazy prices for that lens. Now I need to got and shoot with this cool lens. Images shot I will share with you after I use this lens. Thanks again for telling me about this smooth focus lens.
Nice! Did you get the one with the gold ring? I'm looking at getting one but I'm seeing mostly the AI or AI-S version. I'm wondering if there's a difference.
Harry Trejo I got the version with the Gold ring. The focus ring is very smooth. Like Ken said you can use one finger to focus on your subject. Sorry I have been busy with Wedding shoots to post test shot images.
Can I use this lens with an adapter on my Sony A7 in manual mode ?
Love your videos.
They inform me and make me laugh. What could be better.
Ok have found a mint version at a good price of this lens and am thinking of buying it.
I shoot a lot of birds in flight and am wondering if I will struggle with this lens because there is no auto-focus.
Imagine it will be perfect for shoots with less action.
Any advice or experience would be appreciated.
Just listened to video again and you do say it is not for sports or action shots.
Think though I will get it cause it sounds such a wonderful lens for other things.
People have been shooting BIF for long before AF became in a thing. Just takes practice.
Ken, would you also recommend this lens so highly when you attach it to a X-T2 with a Metabones? I´m in doubt what to buy for telephoto >200mm? I don´t need the zoom of an XF 55-200, but maybe it fits better, when both lenses are from Fuji. Which one would you prefer, if a price doesn´t matter? I know, the Nikkor is like a 450mm at the Fuji.
How does the image quality compare with the AF ED?
just got the 300 4.5 ai version for 100$, but not the ED version.. I was to quick. Is it any good (Didn't get it yet)
you mean the ED IF version. :). as long as its smooth focus yes, for $100,... the IF is the best one of em
Theoria Apophasis its the version without ed glass..just the regular 300/4.5..from around 1978 I think..
Its for my Nikon f3 and fuji Xpro2 😊
Hi,
is the Ai version as good as Ai-S? Thanks
+Lada E. same same
Got one of the AIS versions for $50 in very good condition!!
😮
Gotta ask. Are you doing these videos on the top of a mini refrigerator or something? Looks like it.
Oh! And yeah, would like some thoughts on the 80-200 2.8 as well if you can find the time.
Brent Long you noticed that ehh!!! hehheehe!!
sure thing, what about ye ole tank 80 200 2.8 ???? got 2 of em,.....great stuff, slow AF , perfect wedding lens, best image of all the fast glass Tele zooms.
i recently made a video on said lens.
Theoria Apophasis Thanks. First thought is that you misspoke in the video about the 80-200 and called it a 70-200??? I'll check, but I thought I saw all the videos concerning this long zoom range. You spoke in the video about a Nikkor 70-200 tele-zoom non VR, but I couldn't find one anywhere. Ohh!!! Now I see that the annotation on the video correctly identified the lens as the 80-200. I always close those without reading! Oops!
Did I? I might have misspoke! thats what i get for making 3AM videos!!
Sok, i should have labeled the video better
Theoria Apophasis Actually I think you had it all right. You ranted a bit on the VRII and I may have assumed you were trying to contrast that with the VR I as opposed to the 80-200. Happy to know your thoughts as I'd like to save a bit of cash and don't need anything particularly fast.
And . . . that's what I get for watching 3AM videos!!
hehhehe, well im all about trying to help folks and save them money, namely on lenses, .....ive owned or used them all from Nikon and many Nikon mount alternatives.
An angry photographer recommendation that hasn't gone up in price.
unfortunately the price for the ED IF here in Canada skyrocketed and there's nothing less than 400 dollars..I couldn't spend much on it so I snagged a Nikon 300mm 4.5 AIS (latest regular model) mint conditions for 180 bucks..hopefully it is as good as the one u recommended
i found the 300mm 4.5 ai (no golden ring) it is a good lens? , for 150 bucks. What do you think?
$65
Theoria Apophasis oh, crap, why everything in Argentina is so expensive? thx man
damn, here in Argentina all the stuff is expensive, thanks
I have an old Russian Tair-3 300mm f/4.5 that's surprisingly good - and it only has 3 elements. I have it as part of the photosniper set, which is crazy.
how is the 300mm F4.5 non ED IF AI-S? Would you recommend that?
c312eal its nearly as good, almost......its ALWAYS the same price as the ED IF is used......... But it doesnt have that silky IF focus which is so dreamy, and it doesnt focus as close........also its aperture blades are less which reduces the beautiful specular highlights that the 9 bladed aperture does on the ED IF
id say its about 80% as good over all .....and 100% as good optically.
Thanks again :D Might as well look for a ED IF!
winks
Can you use it with teleconverter?
With the Nikon TC-14B yes
Does AI-S lens work with Nikon F? thanks.The reason I ask is that some guy talked me into buying his Nikon F and it was old and the metering doesn't work but it was a classic so I just got it.
the AIS is an F mount :)
Cool, thanks.
can i use this lens on any Nikon cam? such as SD 3200. 3100, so on
Hi angry Ken! thanks so much for your very enjoyable reviews. it's really time for me to make a donation and I will. the rest of you should too! I just picked up this beauty in mint condition and really looking forward to using it on my xt2. Q: there's such a plethora of Nikon teleconverters that I'm at a loss. do you have a recommendation? it would be cool if it handled both a 2x and 1.4x. thx again. Steve
Is the 300mm f4.5 non ED worth buying?
no , hehehehehehehe
Theoria Apophasis What about the one that is ED but not IF? It was made for a short period just before the one in this video.
Hi Ken, is the AI version has lower IQ compared to the AIS version?
Hey Ken, any thoughts on the 300mm f4 AF (NON S) version? Since it can sometimes even be had for under 300$, it's not much more than this AI-S lens and even has screw-type autofocus...
Holy crap. I just picked one up yesterday for total of $175 (with shipping included). I am sure the cost will go up now that you published.
ScienceDada i just noticed HALF of them vanished off ebay, hehehehe!
I got the 135 because of your review and I absolutely L O V E it. Perhaps you can give me a heads up before your next lens review so that I can not have to pay twice as much for some of this sweet old glass ;)
hehehehehehehe!!!!!! either that or you could watch the videos very closely and POUNCE!!!!
Im glad youre so happy!!! Hey, i KNEW owning everything nikon produced in the past 30 years (or using it) would help people out!!!
Could you help me please? Is non ai version of this lens as good as this one?
Different optical formula, so not as good, but not necessarily bad either.
@@Gael32 Thank you Gael!
Nice video, what is the difference between this lens and the other 300mm Ai-s without the gold ring? They look about the same from the outside.
todd Allen the NEWEST one is $1500, its an AF version, and F4, its not made as well, nor as sharp
the other one, this one:
www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/300ais.htm
is a dirty girl, shes not internal focus, and NOT as sharp. and she has 6 aperture blades, unlike the one this video which has nine, and makes wonderful STAR patterns on reflected light.
also the lens in THIS video focuses down to 8 feet!
Theoria Apophasis Thanks Ken, you need to write a book on all this. You are a great resource!
im working on the 4th edition of my book on magnetism and field theory now, so busy!!!!
I had the same question as to which one to get. Thanks for answering the question. I'm going to keep an eye out for the 300mm F/4.5 IF ED version with the gold ring. I appreciate all your advise sir.
how do you rate the
Nikon AF Nikkor Ai-s 300mm f/4 IF-ED Lens compare to any other 300mm
+Eternally Radiant its a great lens, often not cheap however
+Theoria Apophasis I just found it on Craigslist for $50. but it has fungus on the inner lenses.
depends on how much, that lens can have plenty of spots, but youll never see it,
id buy it , period.
Hi Experts, Can I use ai-s lens coupled with my D5300 ?
You are the man! Thanks for another great video! If you're ever looking to sell some of your lenses, I would be interested in picking up one of your 135mm :P
Ordered one from Japan 189.00 near mint with 72n cap 😊
Ken, does it matter image quality wise that the AI version of this lens is F22,7 blades while the one you're showing, the AI-S, is F32,9 blades in terms of image quality ? I would say no since their both ED lens but I defer to you.
+Ken Davis no, however element count does......the more blades, the smoother the bokeh however.
is the normal ai any good?
Jasshands1 This ED IF is superior in several ways, including close focus,
the AI version from 1977-1981 was produced has wee inferior optics, SAME PRICE as this one, so dont get it.
above is listed as Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S
but on the vid it is the G model..? confused me.. thanks again
yep no such thing as a G
thanks for the help
Just got a 50mm 1.8 ais off ebay for 70 dollars and im excited
Just scored one in excellent++ condition for $130 plus $25 shipping from Japan. Included was a Nikon skylight filter.
That was a great price for that lens.
When I saw it on ebay, I was panicking to make sure all was good before hitting "By it Now." I thought there must be something wrong with it. But no, all was perfect.
Michael Wynkoop this lens is so amazing. The focus ring is so smooth. No effort to lock in the focus at all. Its my new Headshot lens. If you can take the time to get the shot framed and focus without rushing this is the lens I use.
alright I'm trying to make a donation but can't find any links.
Can you use this on a Nikon D5100? I rarely use the camera but I want to take pics of things far off in the distance.
which lens?
The one you did the video on. The poor mans 300mm zoom. Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED IF AI-S
ive got 3000 videos…yeah, i dont know which lens without looking
ahh that lens, there is no NON CPU metering on the D5000 series for older lenses :)
Theoria Apophasis I was referencing this lense in this video, if it will work with a Nikon D5100, I am not a pro photog so I don't know what NON CPU metering is. I build computers and repair electronics but I don't keep up with the photo lingo.
Thoughts on the 300mm 4.5 Ai (non-ED)?
Brian Megens its great, but its focus sucks by comparison, its not IF
also it doesnt focus as close,...... image is just as good.
but its ALWAYS the same price as the lens in this video, the ED IF
therefore get the ED IF if you can
Thanks! Can get it for $120 while ED here in Europe is hard to find and if you do, goes for $220+.
$120? buy it (check it first though)
Deal done! Lens is optically in mint condition (only scratch on lens hood from bag), a true beauty, shot inside at night, hand hold 1/80 and results surprised me already. Can't wait to go in the field with it! Thanks again for awesome advice.
Ohhhh you dirty so and so!! you STOLE IT! heheeh Awesome price!
Hey, im glad your happy!!
take her outside and take a distance shoot and zoom in and see how STINKING SHARP it is
its absurdly sharp :)
Looks like a great lens!! But Is this the one that has a little bit of radiation in the glass being older? If so how dangerous is that?
This is not the version with the thorium doped glass luckily.
Ok, I've heard enough; I'm getting one! Quick question... There are a lot of 300mm AI-S's on ebay without the gold band. Is it the same lens? Most don't have the gold band but otherwise look identical. I don't mind spending the extra $50 for the gold band if that's the ticket, which is basically the difference on ebay. Probably your fault... ha ha. THANKS! Love the videos.
+Theoria Apophasis thank you very much! got mine today and it's in mint condition :-) tested it and it's BOOM SUPER SHARP!!! keep making great videos AWESOME.... thumbs up!
At 800yd the field of view for a 300mm lens on the D7100 sensor is roughly 57x39 meters, or 2244x1553 inches. So suppose you want to look at an object that is about 30x20 centimeters, or about 12x8 inches. On the D7100 sensor (6000x4000 pixels, or 24Mp), your object will use about 30x20 pixels. A digit requires a minimum of 3x5 pixels to be resolved. If you let only a pixel between two digits you end up with being able to pack 7 digits in 30 pixels. So basically Ken is saying here that this lens, if used correctly, is able to resolve up to the maximum possibile resolution of a 24 Mp digital camera.
Checked on my copy and can confirm. It splits pixels on a D750 in the center, and if you manage to correctly focus the corners on a Nikon DSLR wide open, you get impressive sharpness there too. It weighs about 850g if you don't need the tripod collar, great colors, and very smooth out of focus. This is really a great piece of glass if your goal for a 300mm is portrait or landscape. However, today it costs almost as the AF. Its advantage is the low weight and size.
Great advice here from Ken
I have this lens . I request you to upload a tutorial of how to clean the fungus on the front element of this lens. Thanks in advance.
Do you think it's possible to shoot sports/ concerts with this lens?
***** concerts yes, sports no, not unless you have crazy madass manual focus quick skills (which took me years and years to get, as it would anyone).
depends on the sport, basketball, no, soccer, yes, but only if you got skills. etc
Hockey? hell no
nothing really fast
Theoria Apophasis Thanks for the response! The prices have already been jacked up to 350, but there is a half the price version but it doesn't have the ED IF title, for 160, do you think it's worth it?
thats the OTHER lens, its same price usually, and ALMOST as good, but doesnt have internal focus, and its short focus range isnt as short.
if its MINTY, its worth it for $160 ,that other AIS 300mm 4.5 is 95% as good.
since its not the ED IF version.
Have possibly seen this lense for $260 though missing from the description is "IF" so I'm not certain whether if in fact it is the exact same lense in your video. I'm waiting on the sellers response.
Would this lense often have omitted "IF" but really it's the same lense?
Also not sure how many elements it has. It does do have the gold ring. Selling as used yet the condition is "Exc+++". Going by the pics i cant see any marks or frey.
chris j if its in great shape, snag it :)
I bought it and arrived today. No dust, no scratches, no dents, just excellent exterior quality.
It looks new but description is used.
Doesn't come with a lense collar though.
Unfortunately the Japanese eBay store didn't answer my questions. Wanted to know if it was a reproduction model or copy of an original model.
The round thing that pops forward shielding the lens has black felt inside presumably to stop it from dropping back.
It appears new.
I'm worried it might be a reproduction. It looks to perfect for something that stopped being manufactured years ago.
Will need to locate your previous videos on inspecting 2nd hand lenses. Hope that will help me out.
On the same day I got this lens and a Tamron 300mm f2.8 (the green one). This lens just plain out performs that giant glass of the Tamron. Silk Sex and Sugar is the order of the day when this lens is deployed.
I bought this lens a couple mins ago from eBay Japan. 560 Australian dollars. I hope it’s not radio active. By the ways, the Mitakon 0.95 35 mm fuji not disappoints me at all. It stayed ok my xt2 permanently lol
Random question, do AI lenses autofocus on D610?
Tyler Rutner AI wont autofocus on anything, theyre older MF lenses. :)
I bought the wrong one, I got the AI 77-81. But still fucking awesome.
Angry Photographer, what do you think about the 75-300mm 4.5-5.6 d lens?
eeeeeeek, no. :P
What about the 300mm af ED f4? How good is the lense?
great stuff, I've made a few vids on the AF-S 300mm F4 lens.
+Theoria Apophasis Thank you ........ I get one for $250.00 ... Thanks again
$250???? U STOLE IT :P
Thanks really cool i being looking for a 300mm for takening photo of eagles,etc.I was thinking of getting a Sony a6000 with a lens converter fron Nikon to Sony
ty, i got this lens for 270$ its great lens. the focus is so smooth, and esay to use
Thank you! What about its predecessor, the non-IF version?
Also very sharp! A little bit of color fringing, but that’s not an issue. And it’s a bid bulkier.
Is this lens radioactive? Ken
So how much "worse" is the 300 4.5 non-ED?
Alex Hu optically not really, it is however not able to focus as close, and its "pain" is that it isnt a internal focus, and isnt a pure silky joy to focus with ones pinky finger
and SINCE it sells for just as much, better just to hunt down the ED IF
Theoria Apophasis Sigh...I need a class in reading. I usually am successful in following your advice, but in my excitement I mistakenly bought the non ED AI-S 300mm 4.5. It is from Japan and is in good shape with slight dust the only issue for $135 and $20 shipping. Erotically good focusing aside, will I get the same image quality as the lens you recommended?
they made 4 diff versions of the non-ED 300mm 4.5, theyre all awesome and just perfect.
yes, you will, the AIS 300 4.5 is the same optically, i have 3 of same lumped in with the ED and the ED-IF
the IF is only superior in that you can focus it easily with a pinkie finger, otherwise just the same.
Dude, just got one here in Euroland, 250 EUR, all included, if I buy in the states I would pay twice that, import and all kind of taxes and duties out of the yingyang. Should I buy a TC 201 with it, (60 EUR), worth it? I don't know. Anyway, thanks for the heads up angryman, worked again here in Euroland after the 135mm f/2.8 for 45USD :-) !!!
Tovenaar well the TC will fubar that perfect image some, Ive used same but i dont use them anymore......more glass = more hell
You rock bro! Thank you.
Great video dude, sweet looking lense.
PS. I think Frillo has a drink problem!
Nice, just what I was looking for, now to find it on ebay in Europe :-)
Pascal Michiels happy Ebay-ing ROFL !!!!!
Is this version radioactive
Yes
I fear the manual focus lens.
With a little practice, is this lens usable for daytime candids and capturing packs of motorcycles cruising down the highway?
I'm in love with the compression afforded by telephoto lenses.
I used to have a Nikkor 70-300 f/4 - f/6.3 (I think it was) and was pleased with the quality images captured one overcast day but the variable aperture when tracking a football on a bright clear day for an afternoon started to piss me off because I kept having to adjust shutter speed or ISO to accommodate the forever changing aperture.
I just got it !! $375 AUD in Mint condish. cant wait to use it !! i got the 200mm f4 too yippee
Mr Vibroverb hehehehe, so i guess its in the post on its way to you??? !!!!
Awesome :) Two incredible lenses.
i have the 300mm already but its dark out and i need to get up early for work so gotta wait through a day of work to use it ugh ! and the 200mm is 2days away in the mail !! time to take some decent bird shots !
i also have the 28-85mm. i got that one a while back. always carry it with me
Does anyone recommend websites where you can get this lens for less than $200
£300 not really cheap! :) I would put 150 more and get AF-S version.
Yeah, you need AF for Wildlife but nice if you need 300mm for long shots! :)
hmmmm paid $320 for it, and then saw this video...oh well, it is still going to be a great lens for me.
I've read somewhere that a non AI lens could damage my DSLR. What do you think?
this is very true…..damage the aperture 'feeler' on the body
Oops...