Lens Lab
    Nikon Nikkor 600 mm f/ 5.6 IF ED Ai-S (II)
    Nikon Nikkor 600 mm f/ 5.6 IF ED Ai-S (II)

    Nikon Nikkor 600 mm f/ 5.6 IF ED Ai-S (II)

    600mm · f/5.6

    Overview

    The Nikon Nikkor 600mm f/5.6 IF ED Ai-S (II) is a manual-focus super-telephoto praised for its compact size and sharpness, especially at f/8 where falloff disappears. It uses ED glass and internal focusing for good image quality, though wide open it has some falloff. Build is solid with a rotating tripod collar and telescoping hood, but the lens is heavy at ~2.8 kg and requires sturdy support. It suits photographers needing portable reach for wildlife or sports, but lacks AF and VR, and may not meter on entry-level DSLRs.