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Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Nikon F

BH #SI120300N • MFR #137306
72 reviews
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Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Nikon F
Key Features
  • F-Mount Lens/FX Format
  • Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
  • Two FLD Elements, One SLD Element
  • Super Multi-Layer Coating
Offering versatile reach along with speed, the Nikon F-mount 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM from Sigma is a telephoto zoom well-suited for sports and wildlife photography. Characterized by its bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, this lens excels in available light conditions and also enables notable control over depth of field throughout the zoom range. The optical design incorporates a series of low dispersion elements, which help to greatly reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing in order to realize high clarity and color accuracy. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to control flare and ghosting for improved contrast.
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Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Overview

Offering versatile reach along with speed, the Nikon F-mount 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM from Sigma is a telephoto zoom well-suited for sports and wildlife photography. Characterized by its bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, this lens excels in available light conditions and also enables notable control over depth of field throughout the zoom range. The optical design incorporates a series of low dispersion elements, which help to greatly reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing in order to realize high clarity and color accuracy. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to control flare and ghosting for improved contrast.

Balancing the optics, and making it well-suited for action shooting, is a Hyper Sonic Motor that provides especially fast and quiet autofocus performance. An Optical Stabilizer also works to minimize the appearance of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. Also, a tripod collar is included, too, to suit using the lens atop a tripod or monopod.

As part of the Sports line within Sigma's Global Vision series, this lens is designed to offer excellent optical performance, speed, and other customizable features that make it an ideal choice for wildlife, sports, action, and other fast-moving subjects.
Telephoto zoom is designed for FX-format Nikon F-mount cameras, however can also be used with DX models where it provides a 180-450mm equivalent focal length range.
Two F Low Dispersion (FLD) and one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) element are featured in the optical design and help to reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations for improved clarity and color accuracy.
A Super Multi-Layer Coating has been applied to lens elements in order to minimize lens flare and ghosting and contribute to producing contrast-rich and color-neutral imagery, even in backlit conditions.
Integrated HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), along with a rear focus system, realizes quick and quiet autofocus, which is further complemented by an optimized AF algorithm to produce smoother focusing performance. The HSM also permits full-time manual focus control simply by rotating the focus ring at any time.
Optical Stabilizer system minimizes the appearance of camera shake to benefit making sharper imagery when shooting handheld.
Rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth and pleasing bokeh quality.
Constructed using a Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material for greater precision and use in wide temperature variations. Additionally, a brass bayonet affords improved mounting accuracy and rigidity.
A removable, rotating tripod collar offers well-balanced support for photographing atop a tripod or monopod with either vertical or horizontal shooting orientations.
This lens is compatible with the optional Sigma USB Dock for fine-tuning different lens characteristics and updating its firmware.
Compatible with optional Sigma TC-1401 1.4x and TC-2001 2x teleconverters.

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Specs

Key Specs
Focal Length
120 to 300mm
Maximum Aperture
f/2.8
Lens Mount
Nikon F
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Filter Size
105 mm (Front)
Maximum Aperture
f/2.8
Minimum Aperture
f/22
Lens Mount
Nikon F
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Angle of View
20.4° to 8.2°
Minimum Focus Distance
4.92' / 1.5 m
Maximum Magnification
0.12x
Macro Reproduction Ratio
1:8.1
Optical Design
23 Elements in 18 Groups
Diaphragm Blades
9, Rounded
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Tripod Collar
Removable and Rotating
Filter Size
105 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ø x L)
4.78 x 11.46" / 121.4 x 291 mm
Weight
7.46 lb / 3390 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
12.9 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
16.7 x 9.75 x 9.35"

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Reviews

Heavy Beast but pretty darn awesome!

By Cahlean
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-24

Yes, it is HEAVY! But once you've figured out a shoot, cradle closer for easier weight management, then shoot system it becomes manageable. (I've only done short test shoots thus far, can't say how a longer handheld session will do, but your arm might fall off...) The test images are rather crisp, this copy is quite sharp. I'll do more formal calibration tests when the weather warms. It focuses quickly even when paired with the mount adapter. Cradled just right in hand I don't find the focus ring problematic under hand, though the zoom feels like it goes backwards - rotating left/counter clockwise zooms OUT while rotating right/clockwise zooms IN. (Very much like a Canon zoom). Not a deal breaker for me, just will involve a different muscle memory when zooming. Be sure to carry & cradle the lens weight, not the camera. I did notice a teenie tiny amount play/wiggle show up between the lens adapter and Z9 body when shooting, this is non existent between native mounted or lighter lenses on the Z9.

Sharp, fast, perfect

By Christopher
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-05-28

I was questioning whether or not I should purchase this lens or a Canon 300mm f2.8. Versatility of having an f2.8 zoom with more reach than my 70-200mm is essential for the work I'm doing. After searching and learning about this lens, I'm pleased to say this was definitely the right way to go. I've paired the lens with Canon 1DX mark iii and couldn't be happier. Fast autofocus and sharp images make this lens a keeper. If you're going to shoot this lens for any length of time, a monopod or tripod would be a good investment. Can you shoot without a monopod, yes, but remember this lens is heavy and when paired with a camera body it would be challenging to do a long shoot. My set up is just under 14 pounds. Zoom and focus rings are smooth with just enough resistance to not to overshoot on either. One thing also like is the tripod collar which has three different mounting locations to better help balance the lens on a support. Overall I'm completely satisfied with this lens!

I haven't had it very long but....

By Amy
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2022-03-15

I've only had this lens a couple of weeks and I've been able to use it once a night soccer game under the lights. Everyone loved the pics. What I noticed when comparing pics from my 70-200 to this lens under the same conditions is that there seemed to be less noise. The pics were sharp. It'll take some getting to used to a heavier lens (I used a monopod). I just wish it was a 400 for a longer reach but I went with this one because of the price!

Sharp images, great reach

By Sue
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-10-19

I got the 120-300 f/2.8 to give me a good low light lens with enough reach to shoot across the field at soccer. On my D500, I can actually go across and lenghwise. On the D5, across is no issue, but obviously don't get same distance lengthwise since it's full frame. The clarity in the images is terrific. I didn't tell the team inhad the new lens - but they immediately raves about the "wonderful night pictures". I have the 70-200 f/2.8, but find I'm only shooting with the 300 now even though I'm armed with both at the game.

Sigma 120-300

By Larry
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-30

Great lense! Super sports pics in low light. Somewhat heavy without monopod!

Flexible lens

By Catherine
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-13

I shoot high school sports. Love the flexibility of the zoom instead of a fixed lens. As the action towards me, I can zoom out. Well built and a bit heavy. I need a monopod to use it. Can't imagine hand held the entire game. Images are sharp even with the poor lighting of high school stadiums. So far so good. Cost was one of factor in my decision to purchase this lens along with capturing the moments.

Great sports lens

By Kevin
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-16

I use this lens for youth sports photos. It's a beast so I have it on a monopod mounted to a Nikon D610. The images are sharp and the color is balanced. There is some slight vignetting, but no more that any other lens. It's heavy, in all I'm lugging almost 10 lbs around the field. The 120-300 focal range is a nice range and the f/2.8 really sets the target players out. All in all, I would recommend as a sports lens.

Insanely Sharp, But There's A Glitch

By Don
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-16

The copy I received is sharper and has more contrast than some of my Nikon lenses. I had to replace my Nikon 200-400 f4 while it was waiting for a focus motor. And Nikon's 120-300 f2.8 wasn't in my budget, so I opted for this Sigma. It came with the dock as a bonus, and only used it to prioritize the AF speed as I specialize in sports action. I used it with the D500, and while shorter in focal length, it sufficed very well for night football and into the ice hockey season. My complaint is the tripod mount. This optic is heavy, and the supplied mount is soft aluminum. Not a good combo. It didn't take long for the mount to get wobbly on my monopod when switching quickly from horizontal to vertical. I applied grease (which helped) and I disassembled it to tighten the nubs that guide the collar. But Sigma increased the price by $600 since I bought mine, and apparently has not addressed this problem. I went on eBay and purchased a replacement collar from Japan. Haven't employed it yet, but I'm sure that at some time in the future it will become necessary because the slop will become more than an annoyance.

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Will this lens work on Nikon D4S?

Will this lens work on Nikon D4S?
Asked by: Charles
Yes.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2020-09-14

How close does it focus?

How close does it focus?
Asked by: Don
1.5 meters (4’ 11”) is minimum focus distance
Answered by: Anonymous
Date published: 2020-02-10

Is the tripod mount Arca Swiss compatible?

Is the tripod mount Arca Swiss compatible?
Asked by: Fred
While the tripod foot on the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens is not equipped for an Arca Swiss mount, you can add the Wimberley P40 Quick Release Plate, BH # WIQRPP40 to allow this. https://bhpho.to/3wubiQR
Answered by: Kirk
Date published: 2022-07-04

question

How good is the low light performance with the D500?
Asked by: DERBY M.
Nikon DSLR cameras are superb performers in low light, including the D500. This lens, by virtue of it's fast (for a zoom f/2.8) is an excellent accessory if low light shooting is your desire.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

What's the difference between this product and the other one at a lower price ?
Asked by: Anonymous
According to some reports, which most agree, this lens share the same optical formula with the previous version. So the current version only have electronic and big body upgrade.
Answered by: VIC L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

I have two questions. 1. Is this lens weather ...

I have two questions. 1. Is this lens weather resistant? 2. Does it exhibit any focus breathing?
Asked by: Jacob
I didn't keep mine long enough to find out if it was weather resistant and I have no idea what focus breathing is. Sorry I can't be more helpful.
Answered by: peter
Date published: 2020-03-18

question

how is the image quality of this lens overall in compare to nikon 300 f2.8 vr II lens?
Asked by: Anonymous
Overall this lens is a great value. The Nikon is sharper than this lens. but considering that the Sigma is a zoom lens it is quite sharp, and the fact that you have the lower price and focals between 120mm and 300mm (all at a constant f2.8) makes it a great value. The customer reviews on this lens are also quite positive.
Answered by: Yos O.
Date published: 2022-07-04

question

What is the practical difference between this and Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM APO (older model, I suppose)?
Asked by: Anonymous
This is the updated, most current model of the Sigma 120-300mm. The Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM APO has been discontinued.
Answered by: Heather S.
Date published: 2018-08-28
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