Nikon 500 mm PF perfect condition + accessories 1 owner
Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF Lens: A Lightweight Supertelephoto Marvel
The Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens is a remarkable piece of optical engineering, designed for wildlife and sports photographers who crave both performance and portability. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Full Name and Specifications:
- Full Name: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
- Focal Length: 500mm
- Aperture Range: f/5.6 to f/32
- Optical Design: 19 elements in 11 groups
- Diaphragm: 9 rounded blades
- Angle of View: 5° (on full-frame cameras)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 3 meters (9.8 feet)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.18x (1:5.6)
- Length: Approximately 23.7 cm (9.33 inches)
- Weight: A mere 1.46 kg (3.21 lbs) – yes, you read that right! It's one of the lightest 500mm lenses out there¹.
The Magic of Phase Fresnel (PF):
- The standout feature of this lens is its use of a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element. But what's that, you ask? Well, it's not some mystical incantation; it's science!
- Imagine an overhead projector – you know, the ones teachers used in old-school classrooms. Those projectors had a Fresnel lens, which provided light amplification using a flat, compact optical element.
- In the Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF, this PF element allows for significant weight reduction. Unlike regular lens elements, Fresnel elements have concentric circular ridges on their surface. These ridges bend light just like traditional lenses but in a thinner, lighter package.
- So, while it's not Penelope Fisher's secret creation (sorry, no mysterious optical engineer here), it's still pretty darn cool!
Performance and Handling:
- Autofocus speed is snappy, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- The lens is internally focused, so it doesn't extend during focusing.
- Nikon's Super Integrated Coating (SIC) ensures excellent color rendition and reduced flare.
- A fluorine front coating repels dirt and smudges – handy when you're out in the wild.
- Three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements combat chromatic aberrations.
Field Experience:
- Wildlife photographers adore this lens. Its lightweight build means you can hike those extra miles without feeling like you're carrying a dumbbell.
- The f/5.6 aperture might not be super wide, but it's still plenty usable, especially in good light.
- Handheld super-telephoto shots? Absolutely! The weight reduction makes it feasible.
- Whether you're stalking elusive birds or capturing athletes in action, the 500mm f/5.6E PF delivers.
In summary, the Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens combines optical prowess with portability, making it a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts. And remember, it's not about mysterious engineers – it's all about that Phase Fresnel magic!
New or Used:
Used