Medium to Super Telephoto Focal Length. The Nikon 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR AF-S’s focal length makes it an excellent choice for shooting fast-moving sports and wildlife at long range with an FX-format camera. Its f/4 aperture is plenty fast for daytime use, but you probably won’t want to do a lot of low-light shooting. The 180-400 is also compatible with DX-format DSLRs, on which it’ll provide a 378-840mm equivalent zoom range.

Built-In 1.4x Teleconverter. This lens’s integrated 1.4x teleconverter lets you extend your reach to 252-560mm (378-840mm on a DX camera) with the flip of a switch. The teleconverter is optically matched to the lens for optimal performance, and it has the same weather sealing as the lens itself. Do note engaging the 1.4x teleconverter results in a 1-stop reduction in maximum aperture. In other words, the maximum aperture becomes f/5.6.

Advanced Optical Design. This lens’s 19-group/27-element design features one fluorite element and eight extra-low dispersion glass elements to maintain color accuracy and clarity while reducing aberrations and color fringing. Additionally, Nikon applies a Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating to the front element to help eliminate ghosting and flare.

Vibration Reduction. The in-lens stabilizer provides up to four stops of correction at its longest focal length, giving you the flexibility to shoot handheld in a variety of conditions. Its Sport Mode is designed for fast-paced shoots, while its Tripod Mode minimizes ground vibrations when you’re using the camera on top of a support system.

Silent Wave Autofocus Motor. The Silent Wave motor provides fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus, which is great for stills and video alike. You also get full-time manual focus override for further precision adjustment, and an internal-focusing design to help ensure maximum sharpness.

Electromagnetic Diaphragm Mechanism. Nikon’s electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism gives you consistent exposures even when you’re shooting at fast continuous rates, while the rounded nine-blade diaphragm produces pleasing bokeh.

Durable Build. This lens’s dust- and moisture-resistant build means that you can shoot in inclement conditions without worry, while its aforementioned internal-focusing design keeps its length consistent and its weight low. Its front element’s fluorine coating helps protect it from smudges, fingerprints, and debris.