Lens Review - Nikon AF Nikkor 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED

nikon nikkor AF 180 mm f/2.8D IF-ED (1994 Release)

FACTORY SPECIFICATIONS

Focal Length : This is a FX format lens, so you can both use them on typical SLR 35 mm cameras and D-SLRs. But on a D-SLR camera, it will effect like 270 mm.
Aperture: f/2.8 . Nine-bladed rounded diaphragm stopping down to f/22
Optics: 8 elements in 6 groups. 1 ED glass element.
Closest Focus: 1.5 m(5 feet)
Macro Ratio: 1:6.6
Filter size: 72mm Non-rotating, Internal Focusing
Accesories: Lens rear/front caps, Barrel shaped, Bayonet Lens Hood . Lether Lens (CL38S)case is included.
Dimensions: 79 mm diameter. Length is 144 mm.
Weight: 760 grams

MY REVIEW ABOUT THIS LENS
The Nikkor 180mm f/2.8D is extereme sharp with showing NO flaws. Build quality is excellent. Lens glass quality is very high. According to IMATEST results, pinchusion distortion is only 0,3% , not negligible in field conditions. Vignetting is almost non-exsist. You may shoot without worrying even at widest aperture setting of f/2.8. MTF Resolution results are excellent starting from f/2.8 reachest peak values at f/5.6. Chromatic Aberrations are not field relevant. (limit is 1 pixel, test results do not exceed 0,64 pixel)

180mm f/2.8D is a very good lens for outdoor portraits and wildlife photography. Some may consider to buy a 70-200mm f/2.8 VR or 80-200mm f/2.8 instead when price is considered. But the weight is an advantage for this lens for hendheld shoots.
PAY ATTENTION :
- Not so fast Auto Focus (but not slow for sure!)

- Be careful about second hands. There is no lens in the back side of the lens to protect the diaphragm blades. They may be filthy !!

VERDICT : It is not a cheap lens. I may recommend 80-200mm f/2.8 instead if you are not a prime lens addictited. All test result are almost excellent. It is compact telephoto lens with good performance. Recommended (8/10)

MY SAMPLE SHOTS :