Nikon 35-70mm f/2.8D AF

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Numeric markings rub of over the years. Push pull zoom sucks in air leading to possible fungus problems.

This review is for the non-D version of this lens which I understand is exactly the same optically and mechanically (except the aperture lock which was improved in the D version and easily snapped off in the non-D).
I used it over a period of ten years and it took considerable battering and survived without a mechanical glitch. The distance markings run off after a while which is annoying and reduces the resale value of the lens (I suppose one could try and treat it with more respect than I did).
It seems heavy by todays standards but that's comparing with lenses that just aren't as tough. It's very well balanced with bodies like the F90/N90 or heavier F4/F5.
The optical quality is truely excellent; sharp to the frame edges and very good even at f/2.8. I sometimes wished for the zoom range to go down to 28mm but you can't have everything. In fact I would suggest that, unless your photography doesn't give you time to change lenses, you're better of with this lens and a separate 28mm prime (the Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AIS is stunning)
In the end it suffered from a fungus attack. I think this came about since the push pull design of the lens sucks in a lot of air and in my case probably fungus spores on a trip to humid Cambodia! Nikon couldn't clean the elements and I had to sell it off as a soft focus lens (yuk!)

I’m not a big fan of the push-pull zoom model. Personally, I like the zoom ring sported by my other lenses.

I’ve never used the macro capability. I used my 50mm f1.4D AF most of the time to capture my active two year old son. However, when we play outside I’ll use this lens. I can put a little extra distance between us and still capture terrific shoots.

range of zoom is a bit narrower than other models.

If you want the sharpest lens but can't afford the 28-70mm f/2.8 ED-IF AF-S or you want something much smaller and lighter, this is the lens. It has an old school feel, but it's engineering has stood the test of time. I also have the consumer-grade plasticy 24-85mm 3.5-4.5G and I would recommend this hands down. The 24-85 has more zoom range, but is a bit fuzzy. The 35-70mm f/2.8D is razor sharp and feels and performs much better. Note: Although other posts recommend against the macro mode, I have been quite impressed with the sharpness as well.

Slower to focus than AFS.

This lens is a real bargain.

Not recommended as a macro lens, even though it has a macro setting.

This is an excellent lens as long as you stay away from the macro setting. Very sharp moderate-wide landscape lens. I use it as my "normal" lens. The macro setting at 35mm should be avoided unless you are desperate. Stick with a dedicated macro lens. Highly recommended.