Nikon 360mm f/8, 500mm f/11 Nikkor-T*ED BT Copal 1 (42MT) Lens for 4x5 Review

The Nikon 360mm f/8, 500mm f/11 Nikkor-T*ED BT is a dual-focal-length telephoto lens designed for 4x5 large format cameras. It ships with two rear groups that allow shooters to switch between 360mm at f/8 and 500mm at f/11, offering flexibility for portrait and landscape work on large format without needing to carry multiple lenses. The Copal 1 shutter and ED glass formulation place it in Nikon's upper tier of technical large format optics.

At $697 used in excellent condition, it represents a significant investment even in the secondhand market, but dual focal lengths and ED glass make it a practical choice for large format shooters who need reach and versatility. The lens is sold through KEH, a trusted used gear retailer, which provides some assurance on condition grading and return policies. This is a specialized tool for a niche format, so prospective buyers should already be working in 4x5 and understand the handling and limitations of large format telephoto lenses.