Sigma Introduces New Flagship Sports Lens
Sigma recently introduced the 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport. The new flagship super telephoto lens features the latest in Sigma technology.
Designed for professional outdoor and wildlife photographers, the lens is rugged and durable without sacrificing function. It is constructed magnesium alloy components and includes a carbon fiber hood. The front element is water and oil resistant, which makes it possible to shoot in the rain or near water spray without worrying about damaging the lens.
As with other sports lenses, the 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport also features a dust and splash proof construction. For even more protection, the lens is compatible with the exclusive SIGMA Protector LPT-11, which is designed to prevent damage to the lens during shooting and maintenance. Since many outdoor photographers rely on tripods, the lens comes equipped with a tripod socket with 90° click stops.
To improve function, the new sports lens features advanced Optical Stabilizer (OS) with two modes — one is for handheld photography and the other is for panning and tracking vertically and horizontally. According to Sigma, the new Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) “touts 1.3X the torque of previous models for fast and snappy focusing.” The new lens also includes a drop-in rear filter slot and optional teleconverters.
For Nikon aficionados, the lens comes equipped with an electromagnetic diaphragm. Sigma touts that the feature delivers precision diaphragm control and stable Auto Exposure (AE) performance during continuous shooting.
With regard to size, the 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport is 15 inches long and weighs 7.3 pounds. Compared to Nikon’s latest 500mm f4E lens, the Sigma is a marginal 7 mm shorter and weighs 0.5 pounds more.
Below are several other key specifications:
- Lens Construction: 16 Elements in 11 Groups
- Angle of View: 5º
- Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9 (Rounded Diaphragm)
- Minimum Aperture: f32
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 350cm/137.8in.
- Filter Size (mm): 46mm (rear)
- Maximum Magnifications: 1:6.5
The 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport is compatible with Sigma, Nikon, and Cannon mounts. It is now available for preorder and retails for $5,999.