Nikon 200-400mm f/4G ED AF-S VR-II Zoom NIKKOR Lens - Refurbished by U.S.A.

2019-06-20T08:38:34

So I have been looking at this lens for a while and chose to pull the trigger on a refirb. I am not going to review the lens as from a use point of view (how well photos come out / how heavy) rather the condition of the refirb and if it will suit your needs in this condition. 1. Lens arrived in its case well packed with bubble wrap. Thank goodness as the box was absolutely beat to heck. Lens had no damage. Very fast shipping as usual. 2. The overall condition of the case was great. I would say "almost new" with the only wear marks being on the insert. I was very happy about the condition of the bag and the soft lens cover. I initially thought a hard lens cover was included but it is not in the package deal here. 3. The lens exterior showed obvious signs of wear. Mine had a puncture mark on the rear collar that is quite visible. It appeared that the "VR" emblem was replaced with new as it was flawless compared to the rest of the exterior lens labeling. The rubber grip rings were white with a residue typical of rubber that sits a long time after cleaning with alcohol. I took a small amount of tire shine (low gloss) and they cleaned up nicely. the focus grip ring has a medium deep cut but did not impact performance. Foot appeared brand new (100% certain). 4. Glass - absolutely PERFECT. Clear as a bell, clean, no scratches and no visible dirt within the layers of glass. 5. Lens hood. Honestly a little disappointed here. Mine showed obvious signs of wear. several scratches and the mounting screw doesn't hold the hood on the lens very well without really wrenching down on it. It also appeared that the hood experienced a drop in its lifetime as it is not round but slight oval on one end. 6. Functionality - Yup all good. Functions well. All buttons work and feels smooth. 7. The filter insert gasket is not glued in very well. I took out the insert to check out the filter and the rubber gasket came off with it. It appeared the glue was not set yet. I used a very small amount of superglue on the gasket and then reinstalled the lens filter housing. This fixed the issue as I can take out the filter easily without the gasket coming with it. Hope this helps someone make a decision on a hefty purchase. Saving over $2k with the refirb deal was worth it in my opinion and in my case. Just be advised you are still buying a USED lens and to expect some minor cosmetic issues. The NIKON rebuild process ensured quality glass and focus...you will get that.

Kevin R.

2019-05-16T13:55:14

The lens is looks, feels and shoots like it is brand new. A smart buy to go with Nikon refurbished lens.

Robert D.