Lens · prime
Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2005
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S: 5 elements in 5 groups, 9 aperture blades, 1.8m minimum focus, 72mm filter thread, 800g.
- Focal length
- 180mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.8
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 5 / 5
Known for
- Portraits
- Events
- Wildlife
- Sports
- Concerts
Considerations
- Manual focus challenging for fast action
- Manual focus and aperture (Ai/Ai-S F-mount)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)4, level 4 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast5, level 5 of 5
Flare resistance5, level 5 of 5
CA control5, level 5 of 5
Vignetting control4, level 4 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Beautiful, smooth, renowned
Rendering: Excellent 3D pop, beautiful colour
Colour: Neutral, accurate
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
AI (1977)
1977-1981
Non-ED version
Earlier version without ED glass
AI-S ED (1981)
1981-2005
ED marking, gold ring
Added ED glass, improved CA correction
The ED version was one of the first 'consumer' Nikkors with ED glass.
Common issues
- Focus ring stiffness
- Retractable hood mechanism wear
Buying guide
Test the built-in retractable hood mechanism - should slide smoothly. Check focus action.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 180mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Min Focus | 1.8m |
| Filter Size | 72mm |
| Weight | 800g |
Optical design
| Formula | Telephoto |
| Elements | 5 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
| Special | 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £350 - £550
- Mint
- ~£700
Indicative, no dated source.