Your experiences with a 305mm Apo-Nikkor

[Paddy]

I'm about mid-way into getting my 8x10 Ansco into full operation, and would like to hear back from anyone regarding the 305mm f/9 Apo-Nikkor process lens. I picked this one up a while back,...it's an older version with the yellowish/straw-coloured coating. From S.K. Grimes' site, it appears to be mountable into a Copal #1; one of which I have on hand.

- Is there anyone who is/has used this lens?
- Is the coverage just so, or does it allow for movements? (moderate or extreme)
- For practical field use, does one have to stop down to f/22, for (sharp)infinity focus, as with the G-Clarons?

thx, Paddy

 

[Claire Senft]

I have some thoughts but no experience with thens. My thoughts are that the lens is probably a 'dialyte'..symetrical, 4 element, all air spaced design. At infinity I would expect very limited coverage of an 8x10 negative if indeed it does cover it at all. It may possibly cover an 8x10 at very small apertures.

 

[df cardwell]

Your lens might / might not be usable for 8x10 at infinity. It would be a great lens for 5x7. In an 'artar / apo dialyte' type, you really need a longer focal length.

If you shoot close ups, say 1/10 lifesize and bigger you could get by. Great, great lens, just a little short for your purpose

 

[Tom Hoskinson]

I have a 305mm Apo Nikkor - a very nice lens. At f22 it just covers 8x10 at infinity. I contact print, and usually stop down to f45 or smaller apertures.

The 305mm can be mounted in a Copal - but machining is required. I use my Apo Nikkors in the barrel mount. I use a Polarfleece lens sock as my shutter - works great!

For the 8x10, I find that I usually prefer my 360mm Apo Nikkor, which has a larger coverage circle.