Lens · prime
Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S
Nikon · 1981-1999
Discontinued35mm
Internal focus keeps the lens compact. Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-S: 7 elements in 6 groups, 9 aperture blades, 2.5m minimum focus, 72mm filter thread, 990g.
- Focal length
- 300mm
- Max aperture
- f/4.5
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 7 / 6
Known for
- Wildlife
- Sports
- Nature
- Aviation
Considerations
- Manual focus limits fast action
- Needs tripod/monopod ideally
- f/4.5 not fast
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: Smooth, beautiful
Rendering: Excellent colour, minimal CA
Colour: Neutral, accurate
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Tripod collar wear
- IF mechanism stiffness
Buying guide
Check the internal focus mechanism moves smoothly. The tripod collar should rotate freely.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 300mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Min Focus | 2.5m |
| Filter Size | 72mm |
| Weight | 990g |
Optical design
| Formula | Telephoto |
| Elements | 7 |
| Groups | 6 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
| Special | 1 ED glass element, IF (Internal Focus) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £300 - £450
- Mint
- ~£550
Indicative, no dated source.