FS7: Nikkor 400mm 5.6

P

Publimix

Veteran
I can get my hands on an old Nikkor 400mm 5.6 ED Lens. Does anyone know this lens?
It seems the focusing is very very loose. (focus ring turns very easy) is that a reason for not buying it or can this be fixed with some grease?

The lens is very light compared with the 2.8 and 3.5 versions, I like it but I cant find tests (all in paper archive I think 1975-1983).
 
Paging Sam Morgan Moore... ;-)

Sadly, I haven't used this lens but I have used the old 300mm f4.5 ED AIS lens, if I'm correct, looks very similar in design. I found the focus quite light and smooth. Not nasty like some of the later AFD (screw type) lenses.
 
I don't know the lens - personally I would shop around until you find one that feels good.

this might require attendance at an actual shop!
 
A shop? You mean in the real world? So I have to come from behind the computer? Interesting idea....
Although must be almost an antiques shop for this lens from 1977-1985 :)

I bought the lens, these are dark and cold times so I didn't have a chance to test it. It is very lightweight compared to my old 50-300 mm nikkor. Only annoying thing is the clicking sound when the focusring hits the end.
The first impression is good. And for 340 euro it is worth the risk.
 
Yep exactly often I will look around camera shops like Lce and actually try lenses while the missus is looking in her shops for whatever crap she is after - it can be quite pleasant day out!
 
Nikon made a 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S and a 400mm f/5.6 ED-IF AI-S which featured internal focus that was "buttery" smooth because the focusing is done via a small set of internal lenses. The best feature of these lenses is that they don't change length or rotate when you focus. ( I owned the 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S in the 80's and was able to get sharp shots from a prone position at 1/30th second. Very sharp lens. )
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top