Going the distance
Having used the earlier AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II, I can say with assurance that the new model surpasses it in every aspect. There is one major area where this is most apparent; in the older lens there is a noticeable drop-off in sharpness when capturing an image past 400mm in the distance. This means that you trade maximum magnification for clarity.
I have certainly not found this to be the case with the AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR, even with the 1.4x teleconverter activated. This lens remains “professionally sharp” across its full range of focal lengths, focusing from its closest focus point of 2 metres all the way out to the furthest possible distance.
The use of a fluorite element, as well as a magnesium body, does help to make this lens more manageable, but make no mistake, it is still a heavy piece of glass to lug around all day, or when traveling internationally. Professional-level dust and weather sealing, as well as a fluorine coating on the front element, makes the lens more suitable to professional use in the field. I am so enamored by this lens and its versatility, that I have pared down my day-to-day wildlife photo kit to just two lenses and two D850 bodies – which is an incredible feat for me!
This lens is obviously my go-to telephoto lens, and I have recently acquired the oft-overlooked and underrated AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR to carry as the second option in my bag.
If I ever have a need for a faster f/2.8 (or wider) lens, I will only then consider adding to this versatile combination. I can wholeheartedly say that this AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR satisfies my needs as a professional wildlife photographer, and is perfect for 99.9% of my shooting.