Nikon's vintage manual-focus 300mm telephoto — pre-AI era with classic Nikkor optics.
The Nikon Ai Nikkor 300mm f/4.5 is a manual-focus telephoto prime from Nikon's classic Ai era. It provides 300mm reach at f/4.5 — slightly slower than the later f/4 versions — with the optical quality and mechanical precision of 1970s Nikkor manufacturing.
Optically good for its era — sharp from f/8 with the 300mm providing useful telephoto reach for wildlife and sports. The f/4.5 aperture is slightly slower than the f/4 that became standard. Manual focus with smooth, precise Nikon helicoid action.
Nikon F mount with Ai metering coupling. 72mm filter thread. Approximately 900g. Full-frame coverage. Ai coupling provides stop-down metering on compatible bodies. Manual focus. Minimum focus distance approximately 400cm.
Available used very cheaply. A functional manual telephoto for film use or adapted mirrorless shooting. The AF and AF-S 300mm f/4 versions are dramatically better. Check for smooth focus, haze, and fungus. For vintage lens enthusiasts and budget manual telephoto needs.