Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4E FL ED VR Lens

The 500mm f/4E has a tough act to follow in the existing 500mm f/4G, as this optic already produces stellar image quality. Nikon has therefore tweaked the design for slightly faster autofocussing, better handling and enhanced VR.

I've used a Nikon 500mm f/4G extensively for the last three years. Sold it and took delivery a few days ago of the new E version of the lens. Initial impressions.Things I like:1) The reduction in weight is noticeable and important.

I sold my Nikon 500mm f4.0g vr II lens and bought the Nikon 500 f4.0e FL ED VR lens. It a little heavier than my Nikon 300 f2.8g vrII lens but actually balances better due to the lighter front elements.

The saying that you get what you pay for in glass is certainly true in this case. The bonus is the reduced weight.. The attached photos were taken hand held using an old wood 'Scope-Stock' and TC14E3 1.4 tele-converter. I mounted an Arca type clamp made by Hejnar Photo to the stock.

I have used this lens with the D810A, D750, and more recently, the D500. I am getting amazing results when shooting wildlife and nature photos, especially when paired with the D500. The VR feature is superb.

The reduction of weight and change or front-back weight balance makes this a very, very attractive lens to take the place of my current Nikon 600mm f4. I used it hand held with and without a 1.4x teleconverter and a monopod. The monopod was a piece of cake--it almost felt like the Nikon 300mm f 2.8.