Canon's New FD L-series tele — the 300mm f/4L with low-dispersion optics.
The Canon New FD 300mm f/4L was introduced in 1980 as the New FD, L-series version of Canon's moderate-aperture 300mm telephoto. As an L lens it used low-dispersion optics for improved colour correction and sat above the standard New FD 300mm f/4 in the range for demanding wildlife and sports use.
This is a manual-focus Canon FD lens with a fixed 300mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/4. It belongs to Canon's L series, using specialised low-dispersion optics to reduce chromatic aberration, and is a tripod-collar telephoto in the New FD styling with focus and aperture set manually.
The 300mm f/4 reach suits wildlife, field sport and compressed landscape work, and the L-grade correction keeps colour fringing low for cleaner results at range. The moderate aperture keeps it more manageable than a fast 300mm while still allowing a subject to separate from a distant background.
On the used market this New FD L telephoto is valued for its correction and portability. Check the elements for haze, fungus, scratches and separation, confirm smooth aperture and focus operation, and inspect the tripod collar and built-in hood. It adapts to mirrorless with an optics-free FD adapter.