Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4.0E TC1.4 FL ED VR

This lens is unreal in how sharp, fast focusing, and versatile it is. All the reviews that I had read prior to purchasing, raved about the quality of the image. I totally agree that it is as sharp as a prime 400 mm, and starting at 180 mm rather than 200 mm is really a significant difference. Lastly, and literally with the flip of switch your range goes from 252 to 560. Find a way to get this lens.

I've been a pro wildlife photographer for 30 years and have owned and used most all of the Nikon telephoto...300 f3.8, 400 f2.8, 500 f4 and 600 f4, along with the original Nikon 200-400. This lens far surpasses the old 200-400 (which never performed well at 400mm at any distance. And it's as sharp as my current latest-version 400 2.8 as far as I can discern! The versatility of this lens, ranging from 180-560mm is fantastic for field work (and great on the back) and used in DX mode on my D850 is effectively a 180-840mm lens! Well worth the price for the versatility it offers.

Got my lens recently, and first thing I did a focus check with one of the micro focus adjustment software. I got +2, with and without the teleconverter. Used the lens on my new D5. Never had a lens so stable on the results. Went to take pics of birds in flight and nesting egrets. Again the lens preformed beautifully. At 560 mm it was incredible sharp. I had an old 200-400, and there is no comparison. Also flipping the tele is no sweat.Very happy I made the purchase despite the price.

Super sharp with or without the TC engaged. Used out in the desert with heavy winds & was great to not have to take off body to use TC.

Excellent image quality across all f-stops. Not too heavy; but a monopod at least is necessary. Looking forward to taking using it in the field.