Overview

The Nikon Nikkor 50mm f/2 AI is a compact, all-metal manual-focus lens with six elements and a six-blade aperture. Optically, it is sharp and contrasty, especially in the middle apertures, but exhibits slight veiling glow wide open and minor barrel distortion. Build quality is excellent, typical of Nikon's era. It is an overlooked, underrated workhorse suited for casual shooters or those wanting a basic, affordable normal lens.