New Lens.Unsure if this is normal? Newbie help

padi89

Hi,
Just need a bit of clarification on if i have an issue or not.Got my first DSLR today Nikon D40 package with kit lens and Nikon 55-200 AFS VR from AJ Purdy.
I noticed that the zoom ring on the Nikon 55-200 AFS VR lens does not move as smooth compared with the kit lens ,seems a bit stiff.Its like when i move the ring with my finger tips it takes a bit more force resulting in little jumps more than one smooth movement.I really don't have a clue if this is normalIm only comparing this against the kit lens.Any ideas?

pete4130

Could be to do with the fact its a brand new lens and possibly better build quality than the kit lens. Alot of new lenses nowadays can seem to have a stiff zoom ring. This is probably to help stop "zoom creep" in the lens or stop it from liding out to the longer focal lengths under its own weight. It should loosen up a touch over time and use and become a bit more smooth.

Stephen

Yeah my Sigma 70-300 was the very same when it was new. It loosened up after a couple of weeks. Nothing to worry about

padi89

Thanks for the replys.Make sense, put my mind at ease.

Thirdfox

Glad to hear you got your stuff alright. The 55-200VR has a stiffer zoom ring (you'll appreciate that when you're hanging one off your neck).

Hope to see some pictures soon!