The Nikkor P 500/4 contains 3 ED glass elements and produces a very sharp image with lovely bokeh. I use mine for bird photography and 500mm gives a lot of reach with my full-frame body. The lens is quite lightweight given it's size, but I would recommend using a tripod with a gimbal head for easy handling. If you're not experienced with manual focus lenses this might take some practice before you are able to nail focus on a regular basis. This is because it's harder to manually focus a long lens vs. a short focal length. I use manual lenses almost exclusively so it was easy to adapt and the focus on this lens has a nice feel and is easy to operate. Compared to modern auto-focus lenses this one is a bargain, especially with the fantastic results in use.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I have only tried this after picking up a used one on EBay. Believe the reviews by Thom and Bjorn, this is a great lens. I have shot it on a gimbal type setup and managed to get it balanced. Not too heavy but need to have it on a steady base if you are planning to shoot it hand-held. My copy has a nice smooth focus and I have no problems looking thru the viewfinder of a D3. Even tried it with the D2X and an unmodified TC16A combo and got it to "autofocus". The long tele allowed me to get some nice closeups of perched birds and butterflies in the yard. Will need to take it to the field to go after bigger "game". For the price of a used copy, under $1600, you can't get an equivalent lens of this quality. Nikon knows or at least used to know how to make solid professional products. Like an old Benz but you can still use it today and not feel guilty about the low MPGs. Manual focusing is good for the soul, slows down our rapid pace of life and allows you to enjoy the moment and that may be the hidden gem in using these old classics.Read full review
Got it to compliment my 300 2.8. Nice and sharp with smooth focusing. Very happy.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is a really good lens for the money. It is not like the new ones with vibration reduction or auto focus but has a very sharp image with great color saturation. Well worth the money if you can pick up a clean one for near $2000. I am very happy with mine. The results can be astounding.
The Nikon Nikkor 500mm f/4 P IF-ED was exactly what I was looking for - a fast long telephoto at a very reasonable price, and lastly, quality Nikon glass.
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Lenses
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on Lenses