augieg27 Loc: Central California

I would like your opinion if anyone owns or have shot with this lens.

Thank you.

whwiden

The DX version is 6.3 I think, not 5.6. I use the full frame version and like it very much. The DX version got a good review from Thom Hogan.

augieg27 Loc: Central California

Thank you.

nimbushopper Loc: Tampa, FL

You didn't say what camera body you intend to use this lens on. It is only compatible with the newer bodies.

Bultaco Loc: Aiken, SC

I've been using the FF copy on a D500, fast focus, sharp and great VR.

BboH Loc: s of 2/21, Ellicott City, MD

I have the newest version - two labels: 1st - AF-p Nikkor 70-300 1:4.5-5.6: 2nd label VRE ED IF (infinity symbol) 1.2m/3.93ft (slashed 0) 067.
Have been using the 70-300 on both full and crop frame lenses since about 2007. It was my lens for chasing dragon flies and butterflies because of fast focus and sharpness. The updated version that I listed continues the tradition

kmpankopf Loc: Mid-Michigan; SW Pennsylvania

I used the FF edition on my D7200. Picked it up to do airshows/races. Fantastic! You'll hear it is not comparable with some DX models. And that is true. If you look at the Nikon support site for P lens compatibility you'll see that for the D7200, you can't turn off the VR function. Unless you update the firmware in the camera. I did the upgrade (very easy to do) and the lens worked flawlessly. Looking forward to using it on new D500. Yes, I would recommend it to a friend.

suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

I use the FF version on my D7500 - ditto what others are saying. Also relatively light weight and well balanced. Also "4 year extended warranty with online registration"

rodpark2 Loc: Dallas, Tx

The full frame version is my travel lens, resonably light, versatile and sharp. The DX version I have was a second kit lens with a D3400. It is amazingly light, small and very very fast focusing and sharp. Way better than I would expect. The focus is almost instant. Mine is the non VR model. The P model only works with really late models and some require firmware updates.

Thomas902 Loc: Washington DC

whwiden's post is likely the only one with merit here... You seriously need to study Thom Hogan's review
http://www.dslrbodies.com/lenses/nikon-lens-reviews/nikkor-zoom-lens-reviews/nikon-70-300mm-f45-56-af-p.html

have both the DX and FX versions...
Picked up a "white box" DX version for $210 (new) via walmart... It works great!
Purchased the FX variant from B&H (it was defective and I had to return it) B&H said no problem and sent me a good copy.

My thoughts after using both? the DX version offers the best value by far... and is only a tad less in optical performance...
The down side is you must upgrade your D7100; D7200's firmware to use this DX variant... It does NOT work on the D7000 (what was Nikon thinking?) Also the DX version does NOT come with the appropriate HB-77 hood which I had to purchase separately for $25.95 from B&H... outrageous... btw, you simply can't use this DX optic in sunlight without the HB-77.

The FX version has a slightly better build quality (but certainly not a lens I would use on a commercial assignment).
The FX version is optically very good between 135mm through 200mm (which is where you would likely be using it)
Outside those limits it is only marginally acceptable... period! At 300mm acuity loss is certainly unacceptable for commercial work and it vignettes terribly...

What's to love about both lenses? light weight, Focus speed, silent AF, and absolutely amazing VR... likely one of the best Nikon has produced

For the price point... both represent excellent value... but again, they are a hobbyist tool (not weather sealed) and rather fragile.

For shooting commercially look to the 80-400mm (new version, the older version is a dog). You will not regret this choice...
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/936121-REG/nikon_80_400mm_f_4_5_5_6g_ed_vr.html
This optic is widely used by commercial outdoor sports photographers...

Below please find an example of the DX version... not bad for $210... at least in my humble estimation...
Hope this helps or is at least food for thought...
I wish you well on your journey augieg27

DX variant on a Nikon D7100

(Download)

augieg27 Loc: Central California

Thank you Thomas902
This photo is great and convinced me to get this lens.

augieg27 Loc: Central California

Thank you all for the great inside about this lens.
It is for sale "white box" at eBay, with one year warranty new for $136 which is the AF-P version and fits my D5500. I have the latest firmware.
I'm going to order it right now!!

Thomas902 Loc: Washington DC

Thanks for the feedback augieg27...

You would be well advised to check carefully and be certain that the eBay offering is the VR version (not the non-VR version)
The VR version is to be cherished... word!
Also seriously consider picking up a HB-77 hood... you'll need this hood when shooting in sunlight...

I'm certain you will enjoy this DX optic... :)

augieg27 Loc: Central California

Thanks again for your advice. Here is the listing headline:

Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
( 182346563831 )

One year seller's warranty is included. Price $146 -

There are at least 3 sellers offering hundreds of these lenses. I wonder??