Nikon Readies S-Series 800mm Full-Frame Prime Lens

2022.04.07

Nikon released yesterday a new extreme telephoto lens for their mirrorless platform with Full-Frame coverage. By far the longest lens in the lineup takes advantage of the latest technologies to deliver a more compact model than previous lenses with similar specifications.

The new Nikkor Z 800mm F/6.3S VR joins the premium S-series of lenses designed for Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Cameras while also being compatible with APS-C offerings where it provides a viewing-angle equivalent to an 1200mm lens. This extreme-telephoto lens provides a typical maximum aperture for its reach. For working with Nikon APS-C mirrorless models, the new Z 800mm F/6.3 offers optical image stabilization which is effective to 5 stops. When mounted on a Full-Frame camera with builtin image-stabilization, the systems work together to achieve 5½ stops of Vibration Reduction.

A lens this class is always packed with features yet Nikon truly went all out with this Nikkor Z 800mm F/6.3S VR. A wide focal-ring provides a Quick-Shift AF mechanism, while a second customizable control-ring adds a second control-point. It can control ISO, EC and Aperture, at least. Two distinct function buttons are available on the lens, one close to the lens mount and another near the front of the lens, which gets replicated one 4 sides for access convenience. Focus mode and limit switches are also found on this lens.

This is a wildlife photography lens by design. This means outdoor use for which Nikon equipped the Z 800mm F/6.3 with advanced weatherproofing. One often uses such lens in remote and automated environments and so this lens features a Kensington lock slot to keep it secure. Keep in mind that the other end of the Kensington lock must have a way to be secured too. A rotating tripod collar allows this lens to be mounted in any orientation with proper balance.

State-of-the-art Phase-Fresnel optics and high-refraction glass elements allowed Nikon to make this lens much lighter than with traditional materials. At 2.4kg, the new Nikon Z 800mm F/6.3S VR weighs slightly over half the weight of the equivalent Nikon F-mount offering! Even its length is 16% shorter but there is only so much one can do to bend light from a 3.1° viewing-angle. An even more extreme reach is possible by pairing this lens with a 1.4X or 2X tele-converter.

Availability for this new lens is expected this month for $6500 or $8500 CAD. While certainly a high cost, this is significantly lower than other modern extreme telephoto lenses. With the summer months approaching and more active wildlife, the Z 800mm F/6.3S VR is expected to be quite popular among its price-range. Both Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting pre-orders, for those who want to be among the first to recieve it.

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