Nikkor 28mm f/2 ai and ai-s

[Bjørn Rørslett]

Here are the two contenders 24/2 (AIS) and 28/2 (AI) Nikkors. The 24 to the left and 28 to the right in front of my Nikon Df. They are shown with the correct lens hoods; HK-2 for the 24 and HN-2 for the 28.

In the background, two matching lenses for a small travelling kit: 85/1.8 and 105/2.5. One can match and mix at will so all combinations (24|28) + (85|105) are feasible. If required, add either a fast normal 50-class lens (50/1.8, 1.4, or 1.2) or a Micro-Nikkor 55 if there is expected close-up work for an assignment.

All lenses are CPU-modified of course.

[Jakov Minić]

Bjørn, your collection is missing the 45P 

[Bjørn Rørslett]

You know my view on the 45P: too small for my fingers. Otherwise it just might be an additional middle-position candidate.

[Asle F]

The HK-2 is what I dislike most with my 24mm/2. Other than the hood that allways slip off in the bag, I second Bjørn's comparison of 24mm/2 and 28mm/2. Both mine are AIS.

[Roland Vink]

That's strange, HK style hoods usually fit on very securely via the thumb-screw. You can use the HN-1 hood instead if you want a hood which won't fall off.

[Bjørn Rørslett]

I have done further test shooting with the various 24 & 28 Nikkors at my disposal. Turns out my 24/2, once perfect, now definitively is out of alignment and this is pretty apparent at the widest apertures. No wonder the 24/2 has such mixed reputation if it gets this easily knocked out of kilter. Still decently sharp for landscapes at f/5.6 and beyond, but the new 24/1.8 is much sharper. Oh well, maybe Erik can bring the f/2 back to its former glory. I had substantial food for thought.

I'll initiate a separate thread on the 24/1.8 once the current bitingly cold weather abates - my lungs now react too strongly to the air chill and I'm not that keen of getting pneumonia once again.

[Tristin]

Thanks for all the info guys!