Nikon Nikkor 35-70mm f/3.3-4.5 Ai-S

Don't overlook this lens for value! I purchased one of these simply because it was uber cheap. Turns out I like it! It is small, and covers a nice range. Perfect for general use, and no fear of breakage or loss due to its low value. I find myself using it allot for carrying around. Gives a good portrait range for reduced frame DSLR. Focus for close up is nice and tight. I would recommend this for anyone building their carry kit, or as a reliable lightweight backup. It is no prime of course. None of the zooms hold up very well against even a off brand old multicoated prime. But you probably already know that! However, the differences vs the versatility is a clear trade when shooting for fun. It is worthwile to have one simply to see if you use it now that the value is there.

Fine zoom for later Nikon film cameras I like this lens, it was sold as a manual focus, which it must be used as on a Nikon DSLR, but it functions best as a fully automatic, including autofocus on my N4004s and N2020 film cameras. I've used it manually on an N65, and will try it out on autofocus on my N8008. On my D100 it only works with fully manual exposure, and what's the point.

It works well Its a good lens, on an aps-c dslr it makes a nice lens just on the side of telephoto from normal. Great for portraits. However when manually focused, the focus ring is very loose and is easy to bump off focus. On my d5100, the the aperture ring is locked and controlled by the cameras dial, personally I don't like this but it isn't really a drawback.