105mm AF-D Micro-Nikkor questions

[Steve Goldstein]

I just received a very nice copy of one of these lenses and have two questions that could be easily answered if I had a manual. But all the purported links to manuals I've found so far have turned out to be for the 105mm f/2.8 AIS, and none of the reviews I've read so far provide enlightenment.

1. What does the limit/full switch do? I'm guessing it limits the macro range but so far have been unable to deduce its function.

Edit - According to a review I just found on photozone.de this switch limits focus range to avoid AF hunting when using the lens at non-macro distances. Can anyone quantify this limitation?

2. There's a small switch just forward (away from the lens mount) of the aperture ring. What does it do?

 

[dpurdy]

I have the 60mm version micro with the same switch. Near as I can tell it limits the lens element from going really far forward which then somewhat limits how close you can focus. I keep it switched off because it is much closer focus than I need. The 60mm Nikkor micro that I have is the sharpest of all my 10 or so Nikkor lenses.

 

[Steve Goldstein]

Thank you. I was playing a bit more this morning and the limit/full switch seems to prevent (when limited) the lens from focusing closer than 1:3.

I’m still mystified by the second switch. I should mention that this is my first non-G Nikkor, bought for a specific purpose with my D7200. I know that as a full-frame lens it’s overkill for that camera but I also wanted to be able to use it on my FM2n and FE.

 

[MFstooges]

If you're referring to the small button just next to the aperture ring that's not a switch. Just a slider to lock your aperture at F22 when you use full Auto or Shutter Speed priority.

 

[mshchem]

Limit switch for focusing helps to prevent the lens from focusing from stem to stern. Gives you more usable telephoto function.

 

[Steve Goldstein]

If you're referring to the small button just next to the aperture ring that's not a switch. Just a slider to lock your aperture at F22 when you use full Auto or Shutter Speed priority.

Bingo! It can only be engaged when the lens is set to f/32 (for this lens) and, when engaged, blocks changing the aperture.

Thanks guys!

 

[Focomatter]

"Can anyone quantify this limitation?"

0.0 usefulness units

I have both the old screw drive AF as well as the newer 60 and 105 Micro-Nikkors that I use mainly for my underwater photography. Nikon has similar switches on their tele lenses. They would be useful if the range could be customized by the user. Nikon's choice is useless.