Nikon's basic telephoto zoom without VR or AF-S, requiring a body-driven autofocus motor.
The Nikon AF Nikkor 70-300mm f/4-5.6G is Nikon's most basic consumer telephoto zoom, originally launched around 2000. Using the screw-drive AF coupling rather than an internal AF-S motor, it requires a body with a built-in AF motor for autofocus and will not AF on entry-level Nikon bodies.
Optical quality is basic with adequate sharpness at shorter focal lengths and noticeable softness at 300mm. There is no VR stabilisation. The screw-drive AF is slow and noisy. Build is lightweight plastic. On DX bodies it covers a 105-450mm equivalent range.
Nikon F mount in FX format, 62mm filter thread. The AF-S VR version is dramatically better with stabilisation and silent-wave AF. This non-VR non-AF-S version is the most basic Nikon telephoto zoom. Compatible only with bodies that have a built-in AF motor.
Very cheap used — effectively free. Check AF coupling engagement and motor operation on your specific body. The AF-S VR versions are worth the modest premium. This lens is only justified if you need the absolute cheapest Nikon telephoto.