The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II ($5,499.95) is one of those lenses that hobbyists lust after and certain professionals absolutely need to get their jobs done. Its long focal length and bright aperture make it a solid choice for shooting sports, especially in the difficult lighting you find in many venues, and wildlife photographers will appreciate the ability to pair with a teleconverter and still focus and track moving subjects at full speed. Its image quality, focus performance, and build quality earn our Editors' Choice. Design: No Corners Cut The 300mm f/2.8G ($5,496.95 at Amazon) is huge. It measures 10.5 by 4.9 inches (HD) and weighs 6.4 pounds. But despite its bulk, I found it comfortable to handhold for short periods of time, though I'd recommend pairing with a monopod for extended use. There's an integrated tripod collar; it rotates so you can switch from landscape to portrait orientation and has a thumbscrew to lock it in place. The front element is huge, so...

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II is a big, expensive telephoto lens with a bright aperture and the superb build that working professionals demand.

Wide aperture; Quite sharp; Minimal distortion; Rear filter support; Pro-grade build; Rotating tripod collar; Focus hold and memory functions; Teleconverter compatibility

Heavy; Pricey; Vignette at f/2.8

Honestly, I did not get the WAO factor I was expecting on my first shots with this lens.Perhaps my expectations were set too high. It was a perfect overcast day but no birds.So I focussed on the backs of trees.

I put off buying this lens for sometime time simply because of the price tag. I finally made the purchase and honestly cant believe how great this lens is. Even with the 1.4 converter this lens is razor sharp. Absolutely a must for anyone who shoots sports.

This is a true high-class lens, and its versatility is amazing. It is so sharp, with such great bokeh, that you can crop butterfly images and they look better than if taken by a macro lens. You can also safely slap a 2x TC III on it, double your reach, and yet still get *outstanding*image quality.

I struggled with the decision to buy this lens given it's hefty price tag but I have to say it is worth every penny. The sharpness is quite frankly unbelievable and although I'd read about it's fast focus it has to be seen to be believed.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Quick Focus; Rugged; Sharp Focus; Strong Construction

Heavy

Fast, responsive, VR and really not that heavy. I've used this hand held, with formal support (mono or tripod), or simply leaning on a tree, car door frame, or my knees sitting on the ground. Pairing it with a 1.4x tele still gives great results.

I bought this lens to shoot sports and events. I have found that there are situations where my 200 f2.8 just does not have the reach I need to get the shot.

Handling and features Performance Verdict Specification Nikon's latest flagship 300mm f/2.8 lens isn't a lens for everyone. The price of around ￡4000 means only the rich, or those who need the very best performance will be able to justify the cost.

Outstanding optical quality; Super fast focusing; Low Chromatic aberration; Low distortion; Excellent build quality

Heavy; Expensive

great lens, works with my Nikon 2x teleconverter

This lens is consistent every time I use......the clarity is unbelievable. I take mostly wildlife photos and this has taken my pictures to a whole new level.

I appreciate Cameta's fast service and overall excellent service I received when I bought this!

Consistent Output; Durable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Rugged; Strong Construction

Heavy