Nikon's fast telephoto — the manual-focus Nikkor-P Auto 180mm f/2.8 for the F mount, sport and portrait.
The Nikkor-P Auto 180mm f/2.8 is a fast telephoto for the Nikon F system, introduced around 1970. The P code marks its element count, and the fast f/2.8 aperture at 180mm made it a favourite for sports, action and outdoor portraits where reach and subject separation were both needed. It began a long line of well-regarded Nikon 180mm f/2.8 lenses.
This is a manual-focus Nikon F lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and a fixed 180mm focal length, using an automatic diaphragm for full-aperture viewing. It is a fast medium telephoto operating with normal reflex viewing. Only the verified focal, aperture and mount are stated; construction details are omitted to avoid error.
The lens gives strong compression and clean subject isolation, with sharp central rendering that suits action and portraiture at a distance. The f/2.8 aperture allows fast shutter speeds and shallow depth of field, useful for sport and wildlife. It renders backgrounds smoothly and holds up well wide open for its era.
On the used market the Nikkor-P 180mm f/2.8 is collectible and reasonably available, valued as an early fast tele. Inspect the elements for haze and fungus, check coatings for marks, confirm the automatic diaphragm operates, and test the focus damping over its longer throw. It adapts well to mirrorless where the fast 180mm remains a useful telephoto.