Nikon Nikkor AI-S 500mm f/4 P ED IF Lens
The Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF is a 500mm f/4 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon Nikkor AI-S 500mm f/4 P ED IF Lens
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Lens Overview — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
Key Features — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
500mm f/4 Prime Optic: A fixed 500mm focal length with a wide f/4 maximum aperture gives strong subject isolation and light-gathering capability at extreme distances.
ED Glass Elements: Extra-low dispersion glass minimizes chromatic aberration, delivering sharp, high-contrast images even at the edges of the frame.
Internal Focus Design: Focus is achieved without changing the physical length of the lens, keeping balance consistent on a tripod during shooting.
Full Frame Coverage: Designed to cover the full 35mm image circle, making it suitable for use on any full frame Nikon F mount body without vignetting.
AI-S Manual Focus: The AI-S coupling communicates aperture data to compatible Nikon bodies, enabling accurate metering even without autofocus.
Nikon F Mount: Fits the widely adopted Nikon F mount, offering compatibility with a broad range of Nikon film and DSLR camera bodies.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Birding |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 500mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | No |
| Focus Type | Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 39mm |
Description — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
The Nikon Nikkor AI-S 500mm f/4 P ED IF is a prime super telephoto lens built for the Nikon F mount, offering full frame coverage. With a focal length of 500mm and a maximum aperture of f/4, it delivers a compelling combination of reach and light-gathering capability. Focus is entirely manual, which suits photographers who prefer direct, tactile control over their glass — particularly in deliberate, methodical shooting situations.
The lens carries a weight of 3.5kg, a figure that underlines the need for proper support equipment such as a tripod head rated for this load. There is no image stabilization, reinforcing the importance of stable shooting technique or support gear. The 39mm filter thread is a practical feature for those wishing to use filters, though adapters may be needed depending on your filter collection.
As a DSLR-oriented lens on the Nikon F mount, it slots into the broader Nikon ecosystem and is suited to photographers working in wildlife, sports, or any discipline where long-reach manual focus is a priority.
Pros — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
- ✓Wide f/4 maximum aperture for a 500mm super telephoto prime
- ✓Full frame coverage means no cropping of the optical circle on full frame Nikon F bodies
- ✓Nikon F mount ensures broad compatibility across Nikon DSLR camera systems
Cons — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus support, which can make tracking fast-moving subjects challenging
- ✗No image stabilization, requiring a tripod or monopod for sharp results at 500mm
- ✗At 3.5kg, the lens is heavy and demands a robust support system for extended use
Videos — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
Review of Nikon 500mm f4 Lens - AKA THE BEAST — LocalPhotoClasses.com
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 500mm f/4 P ED IF
Does this lens support autofocus?+
No. The Nikon Nikkor AI-S 500mm f/4 P ED IF is a manual focus lens only. There is no autofocus mechanism, so focus must be set by hand using the focus ring.
What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Nikon F mount, making it compatible with Nikon F-mount DSLR camera bodies. It is designed for the full frame lens format.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No, image stabilization is listed as None in the specifications. At 500mm, the use of a sturdy tripod or monopod is strongly recommended to achieve sharp images.
What is the filter thread size on this lens?+
The filter thread diameter is 39mm. If you use filters sized for more common thread diameters, you will need an appropriate step-up or step-down ring.
How heavy is the Nikon Nikkor AI-S 500mm f/4 P ED IF?+
The lens weighs 3.5kg. This is a significant amount of weight that makes a sturdy support system essential, especially for long shooting sessions.