Lens · mirror
Minolta MD 500mm f/8 Reflex
Minolta · from 1977
Discontinued35mm
Minolta MD 500mm f/8 Reflex: 6 elements in 5 groups, 4.0m minimum focus, 77mm filter thread, 635g.
- Focal length
- 500mm
- Max aperture
- f/8
- Mount
- Minolta MD
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 5
Known for
- Wildlife
- Birding
- Creative photography
Considerations
- Fixed aperture
- Donut bokeh
- Lower contrast
- Manual focus and aperture (MD/MC bayonet; SLR lens)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)3, level 3 of 5
Contrast3, level 3 of 5
Flare resistance3, level 3 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control4, level 4 of 5
Bokeh: Distinctive donut-shaped highlights
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
RF Rokkor / Rokkor-X (MD I)
1977
Rokkor engraving, 600 g
RF Rokkor (MD II)
1978
635 g
RF (MD III)
1983
Plain 'RF' engraving
Common issues
- Check for fungus
- Check the rear filter is fitted; it forms part of the optical design
Buying guide
Check aperture blade operation and focus smoothness, and inspect the glass for haze, fungus or cleaning marks.
Specifications
| Mount | Minolta MD |
| Focal Length | 500mm |
| Max Aperture | f/8 |
| Min Aperture | f/8 |
| Min Focus | 4m |
| Filter Size | 77mm |
| Weight | 635g |
Optical design
| Formula | other |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | SRC (Minolta) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £80 - £150
- Mint
- ~£200
Indicative, no dated source.