Bill McKenna

I'd like some feedback from those who have shot with both the Nikon 600mm G lens and the Nikon 600mm E lens. Especially for those of you who have shot with both lenses, I'd be interested in your opinion on whether the E lens is worth the extra price. Also, I like people's opinions on buying new versus used. I'd also like comments on renting either of these lenses when I go to places like Yellowstone/Jackson Hole versus owning the lens. I don't do a significant amount of wildlife shooting, but I shoot college football (currently with my Nikon 300mm f2.8 lens) and I'm sure that I'd love a 600mm on the sidelines. Also, I'm sure if I owned either of these lenses, I find ways to use it a lot. Finally, any comments on either of these lenses versus going all the way to the 800mm? I shoot with a Nikon D850, D6 and D500. Thanks for the feedback.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Lenses in this price range and purpose are built to last forever in high usage, all-weather situations. If you can find a trusted source for a used copy, it's well worth the price savings. Although, at this higher-end, finding any used source is a challenge. If not already following, add a calendar reminder to periodically scan the for-sale section at Birds as Art - http://www.birdsasart-blog.com/used-photography-gear-for-sale/ Although the newsletter is sent nearly daily, you have to actively monitor and scan the for-sale section, and act immediately if you see the lens you've been waiting for.

larryepage Loc: North Texas area

I have not owned or used either of the lenses you are asking about, so will not address that part of your inquiry.

I do have thoughts on buying used lenses, however.

I have bought a number of lenses over the years...some new, and some used. All have functioned fine, although one, a Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 G does show signs of fairly extensive use, demonstrating some slack in the focus ring and at one end of the zoom ring when the camera is in certain positions. The main thought I'll offer is that none of the five or six lenses that I've bought used (both from individuals and from reputable retail stores) were complete when I received them. Most commonly, they have been missing the lens hood, usually between $20 and $40 to replace, but sometimes more, followed by lens caps that have been replaced with generic versions--the ones with the release buttons on the outside instead of in the middle of the front. The problem with these is that they are almost always incompatible with the bayonet Nikon lens hood. They usually cannot be easily (if at all) removed or replaced with the hood in place, and the hood generally cannot be removed with the cap in place...it hangs up on the protruding release buttons. I also have only once received the proper case with a used lens, and sometimes no case at all. If these things are important to you, just be aware that it can cost $100 or even more (much more, in the case of the lenses you are looking for) to replace everything that may be missing.

While I have never had the problem, one big issue that I would be very tuned in to with the lenses you are thinking of buying is the possibility of fungus. Think about the use environment of these lenses, and remember that a used lens (or anything else) is a lens that someone, for some reason, didn't want any more. Fungus is a big reason not to want lens any longer. So inspect carefully.

The electronic component of these lenses is quite complex, so be sure to exercise the lens completely to make sure it is working properly. And with the cameras you have, there should be absolutely no problems with full functionality and compatibility with all three.

Good luck as you look, and as you decide,

Bill McKenna

Thanks for the great feedback! Much appreciated.

Bill McKenna

Thanks. I’ll keep my eye on that site.

Strodav Loc: Houston, Tx

Have a D850, D500, Z9 with FTZ II adapter and a 600mm f/4G, with which I have used with all 3 bodies. Sorry, I don’t have the E version as a used G was all I was able to pick up. I call the lens “the beast” as it is just plain big and heavy, but I take it along on long hikes. I have occasionally used it handheld, but mostly with a gimbal head on a tripod. IQ is stellar and the f/4 blurs background much better than my 200-500mm f5.6. I have been pleased with the IQ using a Nikon 1.4x III Tele converter. I haven’t tried that on the Z9 yet, but don’t expect any issues. AF performance is great on the dslrs, and seems to lock even a bit faster on the Z9.

You might want to check out some of Steve Perry’s comments on both lenses at backcountrygallery.com . If I remember correctly, he sold his G and went to an E mainly due to weight (175 oz vs 134 oz), so the E version is easier to use handheld.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Both of those lenses are way too heavy to hand hold. All the newer 600's are about 1/2 the weight and better optically.
I shoot in the Florida Wetlands, I have shot with both, the E advantage is that it has an electronic aperture, so, shooting with your D500 at 10 fps, each exposure will be identical because of the electronic aperture, big advantage when shooting wildlife.
Personally I have switched to Sony because my Sony 600mm f4 is center weighted and only weighs 1/2 what my Nikon did.
Also, I would seriously consider the new Z 800 mm Nikon lens, of course, you would also need a Z camera. But for the cost of the Nikon 600 e, you could have the Nikon Z9 and the Nikon 800 for about the same price. I may even do that next year.
Bottom Line, both Nikon 600's are now obsolete, I would not buy either one.

agillot

For sport , i think a descent zoom lens would be best . A 150 600 or a 200 500 would cover any situation .on the other hand a prime 600 or even better 800 for birds .

GLSmith Loc: Tampa, Fl

I specifically use the Nikon D850 (a pair) as a primary & Nikon D500 (3) as a remote (sound activated). My primary lens for the first D850 is the Nikon 600 mm (AF-S 1:4E FL ED VR)...I could afford the financial hit of a brand new lens and waited until I found a used one. I checked Adorama, B&H, Roberts Camera, ProCam (Chicago) as well as KEH & MPB. MPB finally came through. Before purchasing, I requested various photographs that they take for my inspection. They backed the product with a full return policy of unhappy.
I spent the first week doing numerous checks & calibrated it to both of the cameras. I had previously used MPB for other purchases (both camera bodies & specific lenses). I've yet to have to return anything.
Specifically the E Series is a tad lighter than the G & is supposed to out perform the G series according to
http://www.lenscore.org/

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

I own the G version and love it. I had the chance to sell it at a great price a couple years ago so decided to rent the E version for a comparison.
Both are fantastic Pro lenses, but I elected to keep my 7 year old G lens as I could discern no optical advantage to the E model that would justify the cost of upgrading. I use it on my D800E, D850, Z7, and Z9 bodies equally well. It has never let me down and Ill probably own it until I die.
I am adding the 800mm F6.3 PF Z lens shortly to use on the mirrorless bodies exclusively.

Bill McKenna

Great feedback. Thank you!

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

You probably want to use <Quote Reply> to better focus your specific responses to specific posts / people.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

You're welcome Bill

Drbobcameraguy Loc: Eaton Ohio

I don't have a 600 but I do have a sigma 300-800mm f5.6. It is very sharp and I love it except it is a tripod lens. It took awhile to find one but I'm very happy with it.