Nikon's modern 80-400mm for F-mount — AF-S VR with gold-ring quality for wildlife and sports.
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR launched in 2013 as a major update to the older 80-400mm VR, replacing the screw-drive AF with AF-S Silent Wave Motor. The modern AF-S provides dramatically faster AF crucial for wildlife and sports.
Optically very good — sharp throughout with VR providing approximately 4 stops. The AF-S motor is the key upgrade — incomparably faster than the old screw-drive version. ED glass for chromatic aberration control. Nano Crystal coating.
Nikon F mount with 77mm filter thread. Approximately 1570g. Gold-ring professional designation. VR stabilisation. 1.4x TC compatible for 112-560mm. Full weather-resistant construction. Minimum focus distance 175cm.
Available used at professional prices. The AF-S motor transforms this from the slow-focusing original into a capable action lens. The Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 S is the mirrorless successor. For F-mount wildlife and sports photographers wanting 400mm reach with fast AF.