Nikkor (MF) 300mm f/2.8 + Nikon TC-14E

[Ron Green]

Here is a new S2 shot taken using one of the three sharpest lenses in my tele-arsenal. This older model manual focus 300mm f2.8 Nikkor is sharp as a tack, particularly at its “sweet spot” aperture of f8 (effective f11.5 w/teleconverter). The lens has been “chipped” for through the lens metering with the S2 and (surprisingly) works well the the AF-I TC-14E converter (with tab filed off) which didn’t exist when this lens was manufactured. This particular photo was taken with Kenko extension tubes added for close focusing distance. Flash (with umbrella) positioned high left, photo taken at dusk. This budget priced used lens is highly recommended for its great bang for the buck. On the used market they are selling for (US) $800-$1,000 depending on condition.

[Igor]

Ron,
amazing shot!
Is the 300mm AF (not AF-S) 2.8 lens as good as the older 300mm MF ?

Thanks.

[Ron Green]

Igor:
I think the early 300mm AF's were the same formula as the MF 2.8. I had one for a while but found I could focus faster and better with the MF. I believe that the newer AF's are much better at focusing.
Ron

[Igor]

Thanks Ron,
I purchased myself an AF, now waiting for it to arrive...
Hope it will be worth the money I paid! :)