Nikon Corporation announced that the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR, a super-telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter and compatible with Nikon FX-format digital SLR cameras. The AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is a super-telephoto zoom lens that covers a broad range of focal lengths — from 180 mm to 400 mm — when used with an FX-format camera. In addition, the AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is the first NIKKOR lens for Nikon SLR cameras to be equipped with a teleconverter. The built-in 1.4x teleconverter enables extension of the maximum focal length to 560 mm. The AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR offers simple operation that can adapt to the demands of professional shooting locations and situations. The teleconverter switch can be operated while gripping the camera, allowing immediate switching from the 180-400 mm range of focal lengths to the 252-560 mm range while looking through the viewfinder. Operation that does not interrupt or interfere with shooting has been taken into consideration with the design of the lens. For example, bearings have been adopted for the tripod collar ring, enabling smooth transition between horizontal and vertical shooting orientation, and the zoom ring has been positioned for easy operation while the user holds onto the tripod collar. What’s more, the lens demonstrates superior agility with a weight of approximately 3,500 g/7 lb 11.4 oz, even with its built-in teleconverter, as well as superior dust- and drip-resistance and dirt repellency. Primary features are: Super-telephoto zoom lens with coverage of a broad range of focal lengths beginning at 180 mm and extending to 560 mm when the built-in 1.4x teleconverter is used Built-in 1.4x teleconverter which can easily be activated/deactivated while looking through the viewfinder; Tripod collar ring that enables smooth switching between horizontal and vertical orientation; Zoom ring that is easily operated while holding onto the tripod collar; Adoption of a fluorite lens element and magnesium alloy has achieved a light weight of approximately 3,500 g/7 lb 11.4 oz; Dust- and drip-resistant structure that prevents dust and drops of water from entering the lens; Nikon’s exclusive highly durable fluorine coat that effectively repels dust, water droplets, grease, and dirt; the latest optical design that includes the use of one fluorite lens element and eight ED glass elements for extremely sharp and detailed rendering that is compatible with high-pixel-count digital cameras; t5he latest optical design and the use of Nano Crystal Coat enable clear images in which ghost and flare are effectively suppressed; high maximum reproduction ratios with close-up shooting at telephoto positions (0.25x when the built-in teleconverter is not used, 0.36x when activated); the exclusive design of this lens with a built-in teleconverter ensures optimal optical and AF performance; the VR mechanism offers camera shake compensation equivalent to a 4.0-stop increase in shutter speed in NORMAL mode; users can choose from NORMAL and SPORT modes; electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that enables stable exposure control.