Using the non-cpu setting allows the camera to use the metering since you have told the camera what lens is attached and the correct specs. The lens is and always will be manual focus. Lens has no motor or drive screw.
NOTE: The non-cpu settings are intended to facilitate the use of non-cpu PRIME lens, not zooms.

Thanks .... That is what I thought. Not having the original screws to use as a guide in selecting short shank screws I guess it better to just not worry about it. I was concerned the small holes were a dirt/dust issue. The lens is clean, which is amazing for a 35+ year old lens, and works perfectly. Even the focus is fluid and even across the whole range. They should build lens like this today, metal, glass and rubber, not plastic everything. I even read that some of the internal lens are now plastic. I would pay double the cost to get a lens made like they use to be knowing with care it could last a life time but that is me and the industry cringes at such thoughts of longevity. LOL :thumbup:

I picked up today a nice Nikkor 200mm F4 lens. At one time there was a meter coupling prong. It has been removed and only two tiny holes remain. My question is I know i do not need the prong but is it ok just to leave those tiny holes open or should I try to find screws?

SOLD

62mm Tiffen UV Protector
62mm Tiffen Polarizer with case

Both filters are as new

$25 Shipped

Thanks CHOLLY .... I am already enjoying this lens. Makes me no longer regret buying the D300. Now this is just my opinion and I know auto focus has its place, would be hell trying to manually focus a sports event, but for general use photography I much prefer to manual focus and set aperture myself. It is also a great way to learn how to use a camera. Eventually I got to the point where I usually picked the right aperture for the situation.

Nikon D800 ......

For $3K I had better see and BIG difference. LOL :thumbup: :shock:

I bought the lens because of the quality. Being FX is just a plus. If and when I do move up to an FX camera I can keep the lens. I want to eventually pickup a nice D700 when funds allow .....
:D

I bought a D300 body about 4 months back. I traded up from a D200 with a Nikon 100mm series e lens. The stupidest thing I could have done is trade in the camera with the lens. So for the last 4 months I have been using, or attempting to use and get good results, from a Tamron 18-250 F3.5 ~ 6.3 lens. Being the inexperience dunce I am I could never get the same results I use to get from the Nikon 100mm series E lens and I was blaming it on the camera. Today I picked up a 36 year old Nikkor 200mm F4 AI lens in almost new condition and mounted it to my D300. Well let me tell you ..... NIGHT and DAY! The color, brightness and clarity of this 200mm lens is just stunning. I never imagined that the difference would be so pronounced. i now believe it when I am told better glass equals better photos. Now i know this lens is not a top of the line pro lens but it is way ahead of the Tamron 18-250, not even in the same league as far as quality of the photos. It is all metal, Japanese made and FX to boot. Needless to say I am more than satisfied. Here is a sample shot of my dog.

Male Labrador Retriever - 20 Months old

In may cases the E series is better built than the new lens are .......

rook2c4 wrote: I'm curious about that lens too! My local camera shop is selling a used one for $30 and I'm strongly considering buying it before someone else does.



For $30, if it is in good shape, grab it NOW! My 200mm F4 I just picked up is in almost mint condition. The color clarity and brightness is excellent. I will be selling my Tamron 18-250 f3.5 ~ 6.3 as it is not even in the same ball park as the 36 year old Nikkor 200mm. I paid $100 for it and it is such a pleasure to use. The focus smooth and fluid and the aperture ring has a nice positive click when moved. The F4 is also a great improvement. As far as manual focus goes, if my eyes can see it clearly then the photo 9 times out of 10 is focused. The lens is all metal with a built in metal hood. Go and buy it and you will never be sorry. On the D300 I simply set the specs in the non-cpu lens settings and the metering and aperture work fine. Only works in aperture priority or manual however but I knew this when I bought the lens and to me it is not a problem. Another plus is this 200mm lens is an FX lens.

I will definitely try to stay with only prime lens from now on :thumbup:

Here is a link to this lens --> http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/companies/nikon/nikkoresources/late70nikkor/telephoto/200mm.htm

My other lens is a Nikon 50mm 1.8G. The Tamron is my only telephoto.

Anyone ever used this manual lens? Nikkor 200mm F4 AI
I have borrowed it and the difference between the Nikkor @ 200mm and my Tamron 18-250 @ 200mm both set to F11 is night and day. The Nikkor when focus properly is much sharper and has richer colors. Amazing for a 36 year old lens. I might just trade him lens as he wants my Tamron bad. My camera is a Nikon D300.

I found this lens in great shape for $100. I was wondering if anyone can advise me if this is a good deal BEFORE I might buy it. I do realize it is manual only and would be using it with a D300. I currently use the Tamron 18-250 but with an aperture of 3.5 ~ 6.3, the 135mm 2.8 is looking real good.

Thanks

A BIG thanks to all who responded. After careful consideration and since I am not moving up to FX, at least not anytime soon, I decided to just keep my D300. It is a great camera and built like a tank. I could not rationalize enough reasons to sell the D300 as it serves me well and i am happy with it. Maybe I will consider a better lens.

I have a Nikon D300 body with just under 4500 shots in absolute like new condition. No dirt anywhere. Everything works fine. I also have the original box with everything less the D300 strap but I have a Nikon strap on the camera now. A Sandisk 4GB 30mb/s compact flash is also in the camera. The lens I have is a Tamron 18-250 in the same like new condition. I am wanting to sell everything and upgrade. I am wanting to know what a fair price would be be. Ebay was little help as the price swing is quite large.

Thanks