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Nikon Teleconverter TC-301 2X for Nikon AI, AIS Lens over 300mm
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$112.00
Nikon TC-301: 2x teleconverter for AI/AIS telephoto glass.
The TC-301 doubles the effective focal length of compatible Nikon AI/AIS lenses, turning a 300mm into a 600mm or a 500mm into a full meter of reach. The trade-off is straightforward: you lose 2 stops of maximum aperture, so a 300mm f/4 becomes a 600mm f/8. That's a known quantity, and for telephoto work where you're already stopping down for sharpness and depth of field control, it's a rational exchange.
Compatibility is limited by design, the TC-301 works with AI/AIS lenses 300mm and longer. That restriction exists because rear element clearance on shorter lenses won't accommodate the teleconverter's optics without interference. Stick to the supported focal lengths and you get a purpose-built, optically matched pairing that the F-mount ecosystem was designed to support. For photographers already invested in Nikon's legacy telephoto glass, the TC-301 extends that investment without requiring a new prime.
Who It's For
Wildlife photographers shooting with a 300mm or 400mm AI/AIS prime can reach subjects at 600mm or 800mm equivalent without carrying a second lens. Nature and bird photographers working from fixed positions will find the 2x factor useful when the subject distance isn't negotiable. Film shooters and those maintaining a manual-focus Nikon F-mount kit get a period-correct tool that meters and handles consistently with their existing glass. Anyone building out a Nikon AI/AIS telephoto system on a budget gains meaningful reach at a fraction of the cost of a longer native prime.
Key Features
- 2x magnification for Nikon F-mount AI/AIS telephoto lenses
- Compatible with AI/AIS lenses 300mm and longer
- Doubles effective focal length of supported lenses
- Reduces maximum aperture by 2 stops
- Purpose-built optical pairing for legacy Nikon glass
FAQ
- What lenses work with the TC-301?
- Nikon AI/AIS lenses 300mm and longer. Shorter focal lengths won't physically clear the rear element of the teleconverter.
- How much light do I lose when using the TC-301?
- 2 stops. A 300mm f/4 becomes 600mm f/8; a 500mm f/5.6 becomes 1000mm f/11.
- Can I stack the TC-301 with other teleconverters?
- No information available on stacking with other converters. Check Nikon documentation or test with your specific lens.
- Will the TC-301 work on modern Nikon F-mount bodies?
- Yes, but only with AI/AIS lenses. Your body needs to support those older lens variants; modern AF-S or AF-I lenses are not compatible with this teleconverter.
- Does the TC-301 affect autofocus performance?
- No autofocus information is available. AI/AIS lenses are manual focus only, so focus speed and tracking are not a factor.
- How much does the TC-301 weigh or what are its dimensions?
- Physical specifications are not available for this teleconverter.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Mount | Nikon F (AI/AIS) |
| Magnification | 2x |
| Compatible Lenses | Nikon AI/AIS lenses 300mm and longer |
| Teleconverter Factor | 2x |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount Ai, Nikon F Mount Ai-S |