Howard_Creech's Full Review: Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-300mm F4.0-5.6D ED Lens
The recently introduced Nikkor 70-300 f4.0-5.6 ED AF-D lens replaces one of Nikon's most popular consumer zooms, the 75-300 f4.5-5.6. The old model 75-300 was much loved by backpackers, hikers, cyclists, and travelers because of the wide range of focal lengths covered, simply add a lightweight 28-70 zoom and you had a two lens (relatively portable) kit that could cover almost everything.
The major improvements in the new Nikkor 70-300 over its predecessor are: weight (old 75-300 30 ounces, the new 70-300 18.7 ounces) the addition of the ED designation (extra low dispersion glass elements) which improve optical performance and resolution, especially wide open, and the new lens is a bit faster (f4.0 as opposed to f4.5)...the only real fault in the new design is the elimination of the rotating tripod collar.
The new 70-300 is also more compact at both the short and long ends than the older model was. Close focusing distance is five feet, and with the addition of Nikon's 5T close up diopter, the lens has macro capabilities, without any loss in lens speed. The New Nikkor uses the standard size 62mm filters that fit most Nikon consumer zooms. Nikon has listened to consumers and included a tough bayonet mount plastic lens hood (the hood can be reverse mounted for storage) with this lens. Lens hoods help reduce glare/flare and offer excellent front element protection, Nikon has always charged extra for dedicated lens hoods, hopefully this signals a new trend.
Computers and peripherals have been falling in price for many years, this makes for better deals for consumers....more competition equals lower price, however SLR cameras and peripherals have been steadily rising in price over the same period of time. The major reason for this disparity is that there are far fewer SLR shooters than computer fans. Nikon has tried in the past to offer consumers cheaper prices, while still providing some of the best optics on the planet. The "E" series lenses offered with the Nikon EM were much less expensive than comparable Nikkors, but the lenses were exceptional performers. The new 70-300 f4.0-5.6 ED AF-D lens is listed at a bit less than $500.00, which makes the new lens cheaper than the older lens. This doesn't happen very often.
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