Old vs new 500mm

[joe_perry]

How do the old 500mm lenses non-mirror like Toyo,Vivitar and Spirotone compare

with the new Opteka (and others like it) 500mm F/8 which sells for about $70?

Thanks, Joe

[jim kerr]

Hi Joe, chances are that you will be happier with the older lenses, the cheaper 500 mirror lenses usually will give you a hazy/low contrast image.......Jim

[azemerov]

Jim,

the question was about non-mirror lenses.<br>

I am also curious about quality of Opteca tele lenses. Obviously they have simple optic and mechanic construction, have no AF and exposure metering support. I don't care about automatization - the quality of picture is decisive factor. My filing is old lenses have much better quality (same for mirror ones), but it will be nice to know opinion of experienced owner.