We have tested several samples of the lens in Germany with different bodies including D4s and D810. After we found the issue it were reported to Nikon providing sample pics but we dont have an answer yet. Logically those which are lucky and dont experience this problem simply received a lens from another production batch. This is our final conclusion for the time being and its positive because it seems to be that the problem is related to production or
QC issues and not typical for the lens.
scst48 wrote:
We have tested several samples of the lens in Germany with different bodies including D4s and D810. After we found the issue it were reported to Nikon providing sample pics but we dont have an answer yet. Logically those which are lucky and dont experience this problem simply received a lens from another production batch. This is our final conclusion for the time being and its positive because it seems to be that the problem is related to production or
QC issues and not typical for the lens.
Did you happen the test the D810 with the First Curtain Shutter option.
Need to check but believe so. As already explained we wait for Nikons response. Will leave an updated if this will become available. Could take a while.
scst48 wrote:
Need to check but believe so. As already explained we wait for Nikons response. Will leave an updated if this will become available. Could take a while.
Of course. The guys which found it out a very experienced. As already mentioned one guy tested and is currently testing 3 samples of the 300 PF with his D810. He has the APO Sonnar 135, the Otus 55 and the Otus 85. I self
had the Apo Sonnar for almost one year. So, we know that it is mandatory to reduce mirror slap because its definitely needed with the Zeiss Apo Sonnar as well.
As already mentioned the problem with the 300 PF VR is within a special shutter band or trouble zone as somebody here called it. At 1/20 pictures are sharp enough for our taste. Starting at 1/100 and up to 1/200 pictures are significantly unsharp specifically at 1/160. Over 1/200 shutter speed pictures are again sharp enough.
Thats too bad to hear about the possible VR issues, I wonder if there was a bad batch that went out or something? I guess we'll have to hear from Nikon...I had this on pre-order but ended up cancelling because I love my 300/2.8 too much.
Lens Rentals has revised their testing to conclude the 300/4 PF is about the same as the outgoing version from a sharpness perspective (which is a good thing). It's slightly better in the center, and about the same in the corners. That combined with the fact it's virtually the same size as a 24-70/2.8 but significantly lighter and with VR, there's a lot to look forward to.
I've seen conflicting reports on the weather sealing of this lens. Does anybody know where I can see a structural diagram that shows the weather sealing (or lack thereof)?
AFAIK the lens is weather sealed. It has at least the rubber gasket
ThomasCantwell wrote:
I've seen conflicting reports on the weather sealing of this lens. Does anybody know where I can see a structural diagram that shows the weather sealing (or lack thereof)?
I had this lens for a day. Hated it. Couldn't touch my 300 F/4D lens especially with Tele's. It was not sharp at all with a 1.7 and semi sharp with the 1.4. I've been using the older 300 and 1.7 on my D4S for a long time and it's razor sharp. Tried VR once and noticed the image jumping in the eyepiece too much..Usually don't use VR. I'll take the slightly heavier and much cheaper older version.
simply received a lens from another production batch. This is our final conclusion for the time being and its positive because it seems to be that the problem is related to production or 
Thanks for the thorough review, I'm