Two Nikon 18-300 mm lenses
Aug 19, 2016 13:49:31 #
Looking for help with both Nikon 18-300 mm lenses. They are both DX, one is 3.5-6.3. The other is 3.5-5.6. Since they are both a bit weighty, is the lens with internal focusing easier to handle both hand held or on a tripod. Hoping to find someone with experience with using both lenses. Interested in purchasing one or the other. Thanks!
Aug 19, 2016 15:00:24 #
For my Nikon D7200 I use the 18-300 f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR zoom lens as my everyday walkabout general purpose lens.
For my Canon's I use the EF 28-300 f/3.5-5.6L IS as my everyday walkabout general purpose lens.
I use both handheld exclusively. The Canon bodies I use the 28-300 on most of the time are either the 80D (DX equivalent) or 5DSr full frame. As far as weighty, the D7200 with the 18-300 lens mounted weighs less then the EF 28-300 lens alone. I know nothing of your age or physical condition but unless you are considerably older then I, (I graduated high school in the 1970's), you should have absolutely no problem handholding the 18-300 3.5-5.6 lens on most any Nikon body.
For my Canon's I use the EF 28-300 f/3.5-5.6L IS as my everyday walkabout general purpose lens.
I use both handheld exclusively. The Canon bodies I use the 28-300 on most of the time are either the 80D (DX equivalent) or 5DSr full frame. As far as weighty, the D7200 with the 18-300 lens mounted weighs less then the EF 28-300 lens alone. I know nothing of your age or physical condition but unless you are considerably older then I, (I graduated high school in the 1970's), you should have absolutely no problem handholding the 18-300 3.5-5.6 lens on most any Nikon body.
Aug 19, 2016 15:05:37 #
Thanks. About the same age as you. Do you feel there is any other advantage to internal focusing and the shorter barrel.
Aug 19, 2016 17:02:20 #
linelink wrote:
Thanks. About the same age as you. Do you feel there is any other advantage to internal focusing and the shorter barrel.
One advantage is the front doesn't spin while focusing so if you're using a CP or ND filter, not a problem.
You are acquiring a new lens I'm guessing?! The reason I bring this up is, the electronics in this lens are made with lead free solder and over time, on average about 10 years, lead free solder will grow what is called tin whiskers. Tin whiskers are conductive and will short out electronic components. This lens has been on the market for 4 years now so a 4 year old used one, even in excellent condition, may only have a life expectancy of 6 years. Could be more, could be less. Tin whiskers grow at different rates.
Aug 19, 2016 17:18:08 #
Aug 20, 2016 08:43:42 #
Carlmk
Loc: Naples, FL & Boston, MA
I have the 6.3 18-300 mm Nikon on my D5500. At no time have I felt a limitation for not having the larger aperture lens. The high ISO capability of most of the modern cameras is a blessing so one f-stop difference isn't noticible.
The lighter weight of the 6.3 lens in combination with the light weight D5500 is significant. Makes them a real "carrying it around" camera.
I had tested various combinations of lens and camera including the D7200 before deciding. Weight won out.
The lighter weight of the 6.3 lens in combination with the light weight D5500 is significant. Makes them a real "carrying it around" camera.
I had tested various combinations of lens and camera including the D7200 before deciding. Weight won out.
Aug 20, 2016 10:14:37 #
Aug 20, 2016 18:08:15 #
linelink wrote:
Looking for help with both Nikon 18-300 mm lenses. They are both DX, one is 3.5-6.3. The other is 3.5-5.6. Since they are both a bit weighty, is the lens with internal focusing easier to handle both hand held or on a tripod. Hoping to find someone with experience with using both lenses. Interested in purchasing one or the other. Thanks!
I have the Nikon 18-300 3.5-5.6 on my D7200 and I love it. It's also my walk around lens. I graduated from high school in 1961 and it's no problem to carry around, especially if you use an Op/Tech sling strap. I have occasionally even raised the camera and was able to shoot one handed with good results. MTShooter, our resident expert here, seems to like the 3.5-5.6 better and the weight difference is negligible.
Aug 20, 2016 18:30:11 #
Aug 20, 2016 18:34:57 #
Aug 20, 2016 18:52:22 #
I too am considering a Nikon 18 - 300, and have been searching EBay and getting confused. Is the 5.6 about 10 ounces heavier than the 6.3 and an older model with the A/M and M focusing system vs. the 6.3 with A and M focusing? Also curious, I'm finding "import" lenses vs. lenses made for the US market. How important is that? Is difference only in terms Nikon warranty vs. warranty from a 3rd party seller (grey market lens)? Also seeing manufactured in China vs. Thiland -- even more confusing. Maybe I should just buy a reconditioned lens from NikonUSA.com and pay a bit more than grey market equivalent on EBay and get a Nikon warranty? HELP! Any advice is appreciated.
Aug 20, 2016 19:08:48 #
You are correct about the 10 oz. weight differential. The older 5.6 is more expensive. The 6.3 is a G lens which means that the aperature ring is removed to cut manufacturers costs. A grey market version of Nikon lenses, limits your warranty, and I am told that Nikon will not repair them if you have a problem. Adorama Camera, has the 18-300 6.3 for $696.00 new, with full Nikon Warranty. The used versions, and grey market versions, seem to be going for $575. to $650. I would not risk it for $100. Or less ..... Your call? It seems to me that a 18-300 lens is going to get a lot of use in most cases. So, used versions could be risky. Just saying.
Aug 20, 2016 22:50:40 #
Carlmk wrote:
That explains the difference. I graduated H.S. in 1953.
I hadn't even been conceived yet in 1953.
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