Check Out This Heavy Hitter

Yep, saw that link recently when looking for super telephotos by Nikon.

Here's a story from Nikon themselves about this amazing lens and what it can do.

Nikon | Recollections | Zoom-Nikkor 1200-1700mm f/5.6-8P IF-ED

Wow, page translation for anyone without the translator.

The photographer Dylan Martinez Reuters agency test the maxi-telephoto lens with which try to capture the first image of the new Pope is a 1200-1700mm telephoto lens that is an amazing 16 kilograms, is 888 mm long (237 mm the diameter). The diaphragm is a 9 blades. The minimum focusing distance is 10 meters.

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06Honda said:

La Stampa - Maxi obiettivo a San Pietro per il nuovo Papa

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Good Lord!! It's a monster! 1200-1700mm, min. focusing distance is 10 meters, and it weighs 16 kilos (35 lbs). Must cost a small fortune!

Here's more info on this lens: Nikon | Recollections | Zoom-Nikkor 1200-1700mm f/5.6-8P IF-ED

I recall reading that it sold for $75,000 new when first released but I'm not sure that's correct.

That is just INSANE! You need a crew of two and a very sturdy studio tripod just to use it!

LOL, the lense is nicknamed "Tuna", and its carrying case "the coffin".

I guess it would be a little heavy to use as a vacation walk about lens.