[gordon_l34]

Hi,

I have a Sigma 100-300mm f4 S/N 1004024.
How do I tell which version it is?

Regards.

[Digitalis]

With such an early serial number an APO EX most likely. The sigma 100-300mm f/4 doesn't have a long history of obfuscated optical re-designs like some older K mount primes do. The DG version appeared not long before 100-300mm f/4 was entirely discontinued, the DG version had "improved" coatings on the rear element to help reduce ghosting and flare along with some minor cosmetic changes. Personally I haven't had many issues with ghosting or flare with this lens as it has a well designed deep hood.

On APS-C or full frame it is an excellent lens.


Pentax K5IIs - Sigma 100-300mm f/4 APO EX DG - ISO 400 1/640th f/5.6

[gordon_l34]

Hi Digitalis,

Sorry, I should have included more information.
It is stamped as an APO, EX with IF.

Regards.

[Digitalis]

It is stamped as an APO, EX with IF.

The same as what I have got. Mine has a serial number beginning with 5.

[Digitalis]

Sorry, I should have included more information. It is stamped as an APO, EX with IF.

Mine doesn't have [IF] stamped on it anywhere although it most certainly is an IF lens....are we talking about the same lens? i'm talking about the Sigma 100-300mm f/4 APO EX. Sigma did produce an older variable aperture version of the 100-300mm f/4.5-6.7 DL lens C. 2000

[gordon_l34]

Hi,

We are definitely discussing the same lens. The IF is located just to the right of the focusing window when viewed from the rear.

Regards.

[Digitalis]

We are definitely discussing the same lens. The IF is located just to the right of the focusing window when viewed from the rear

Strange, my sigma 100-300mm f/4 does not have that marking:



This is my battle worn Sigma 100-300mm f/4 APO EX DG next to the Sigma 180mm f/3.5 APO EX Macro*, the Sigma macro is from the older generation of sigma lenses from the late 90s to early 2000s its serial number begins with a 100 like your copy of the 100-300mm f/4. Which makes me suspect your lens may be an early version of the 100-300mm f/4 - in any case the optical design hasn't changed, only the external barrel zoom grips and the optical coatings are different in the DG version.

* I never really paid attention to this before: the edges of the focus window on my sigma 180mm f/3.5 are silver, which is a bit bizarre.

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Last edited by Digitalis; 11-07-2017 at 07:37 PM.

[gordon_l34]

Strange, my sigma 100-300mm f/4 does not have that marking:



This is my battle worn Sigma 100-300mm f/4 APO EX DG next to the Sigma 180mm f/3.5 APO EX Macro*, the Sigma macro is from the older generation of sigma lenses from the late 90s to early 2000s its serial number begins with a 100 like your copy of the 100-300mm f/4. Which makes me suspect your lens may be an early version of the 100-300mm f/4 - in any case the optical design hasn't changed, only the external barrel zoom grips and the optical coatings are different in the DG version.

* I never really paid attention to this before: the edges of the focus window on my sigma 180mm f/3.5 are silver, which is a bit bizarre.

HI,

Just viewing your photograph of your 180mm and 100-300mm lens, the focusing grip on mine is the same as your 180mm, the edge of the focus window is silver and the 100-300mm f4 APO designation is to the left of the focusing window while the IF lettering is to the right of the window.

Regards.

[Digitalis]

yes, you simply have an older version of the 100-300mm f/4. Optically identical to mine.

[Charben]

Hi,

I have a Sigma 100-300mm f4 S/N 1004024.
How do I tell which version it is?

Regards.

Interest in selling your Sigma 100-300?