Nikon 180mm f/2.8D AF-ED Lens Collar

Since the early 1980's, I've owned a Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 AIs. I used it on everything from my F, up through my F6, and even on my DSLR's. It's an excellent piece of glass, and it stays in the case.

Yesterday, my local dealer ran a newer 180mm f/2.8D ED-IF on his eBay page. He had it for a good price, so now it's mine. These 180's do not come with a lens collar, but it wasn't a deal breaker. I read somewhere that the lens diameter in front of the f-stop ring was @73mm. When I got the lens home, I looked in my parts box, and found a spare lens collar, a Chinese knockoff, but made very nicely, so I tried it on the 180, and it fits perfectly.

Fast forward - My newer 70-200mm f/4 uses the Vella brand lens collar. I tried it, and it fits like a glove. A quick trip to B&H on line, and I have one on the way.

I don't worry that the lens would damage a body mount, but the lens collar does make it easier to rotate the camera to portrait mode.

Thought the group would like to know.

I have the lens you describe. Not sure I would know how I would approach fitting a collar. That's a great lens. I had one, sold it. Bought another. Really compact and good looking.

mshchem said:

I have the lens you describe. Not sure I would know how I would approach fitting a collar. That's a great lens. I had one, sold it. Bought another. Really compact and good looking.

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It's very easy to mount the lens collar. There's more than adequate room between the model identity engraving and the distance scale. The collar has a spring-loaded tightening screw that allows the collar to be opened and position as I previously described. Tighten down the screw until not quite tight, and adjust the lens so it's properly positioned. Final tightening keeps the lens in place, and loosening allows the camera to be rotated to portrait or landscape.