Last Updated on May 22, 2020
There has been so much anticipation for the new Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens after the camera manufacturing giant announced that it would start shipping in February this year.
Video credit: Ken Rockwell
But then, the coronavirus pandemic happened affecting all the camera manufacturers around the world including Nikon.
Earlier this year, Nikon announced that the D6, its new flagship DSLR will be delayed due to the outbreak and now, it looks like its new AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens will also be seeing some delays.
In a statement made by Nikon Inc. to PetaPixel, the company said that: “The U.S. availability for the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR will be announced at a later date as we determine the global impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak. We will communicate updates on timing as they become available.”
In the meantime, here are some of the things that we can look forward to with the new AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens from Nikon:
Viewing, handling and controls
At 3.25 kilograms and 12 inches, the new Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens is not the most lightweight lens you’ll find now. In fact, it’s larger than the Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 ED VR II and the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sport.
It’s also more expensive at $9,500 as compared to the Nikkor 300mm coming in at $5,500 and the Sigma for only $3,500, which is why it’s expected to deliver more in terms of efficiency and performance.
Image and video
The new AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens is basically an F-mount telephoto zoom lens that boasts of quick focus, an advanced optical design and that r/2.8 constant maximum aperture for consistent quality footage.
Its optical layout also features extra-low dispersion (ED), fluorite and short-wavelength refractive (SR) glass that guarantee clarity, color accuracy and sharpness throughout its zoom range by suppressing different aberrations. Some of its other features include:
- Nano Crystal and ARNEO Coats and a Super Integrated Coating to suppress any surface reflections, flares and ghosting that allows for consistent color fidelity and improved contrast.
- A Vibration Reduction image stabilization system that reduces camera shaking for more stable images during handheld shooting.
- A Silent Wave Motor that produces sharp images, a full-time manual focus override and a quick and quiet autofocus performance.
- A rotating tripod collar for easier maneuvering with a support system.
- An electromagnetic diaphragm for consistent stability when shooting at fast speeds.
Final thoughts
The Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E lens is compatible with DX lenses where it can offer a 180-450mm focal length range.
When you purchase this new lens, you’ll get the Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR lens, the Nikon LC-K103 slip-on front lens cap, the Nikon LF-4 rear lens cap, the Nikon HK-41 slip-on lens hood, the CL-C2 lens case and the Nikon LN-2 lens strap for NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6 FL ED VR.
This lens kit also comes with a limited 1-year warranty and a limited 4-year USA warranty extension with online registration.
