Nikon 17-55/2.8 Zoom ring Stiff

[wayne_murphy8]

The rotating zoom ring on my new Nikon 17-55/2.8 zoom is very stiff and has

a lot of friction resistance. It does not bind in one spot but is much stiffer than

any other zoom I have owned. I am aware that it needs some resistance to

maintain the setting. Can ony other owners advise if this is normal or

common? Thanks.

[bryan_lardizabal]

I tested that lens at a local camera store and found it to have more resistance than

other lenses, but not like you have stated.

 

Maybe you have a "bad apple". If it really annoys you I would exchange it out for

another.

[nedevermac.com]

This seems to be a fairly widespread problem. Mine was stiff but not exceptionally so and has

loosened with use. If it's a problem, take it back and if it's not, then just use it and wait for it

to ease up.

 

-Noah Devereaux

[michael erlich]

Mine also started off rough and stiff, but has much improved with use. Be patient.

[chris_leck]

My 17-55 started off stiff. While not rough, it doesn't have the silky smooth zoom of other AF-S lenses I have. For the most part, I don't notice the stiffness anymore -- and it probably has loosened up a little.

 

The 17-55 stills suffers horribly in comparison to the feel of my AF-S 28-70 f/2.8. The 28-70 is in another class entirely -- it was perfect to begin with, never needed to loosen, and never has.

 

I've always rationalized that the stiffness was a design trade-off. Not too many years ago, a lens like this would have been beyond exotic. Now it merely is a little expensive. I think it's okay to be critical.

[wayne_murphy8]

Thanks, the dealer has agreed to a replacement.