Outstanding build quality
Take control of the depth-of-field using the built-in aperture control ring. The ring can be de-clicked, which is useful for film-makers, and locked so that it cannot be changed accidentally.
An Arca-Swiss-compatible magnesium alloy tripod socket is included to keep the lens compact and lightweight. The socket features a standard 1/4” screw and can be detached when required, especially useful when shooting hand-held.
Much of the exterior and some of the interior of the lens is built of TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), a light and strong material that increases durability and reduces weight. TSC has similar thermal expansion properties to aluminium, which means that both the TSC and aluminium parts within the barrel expand and contract to the same degree as temperatures change. This ensures a highly consistent performance whether shooting in a hot desert region or the freezing temperatures of a polar environment.
The mount connection, manual focus ring, zoom ring, switches, switch panel and exterior connection are all dust- and splash-resistant to prevent dust and moisture from entering the lens. The front element of the lens has a water- and oil-repellent coating that helps keep the optic clear of contaminants.
Effortlessly keep up with the action
The SIGMA 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS | Sports is perfectly suited to fast-paced action such as birds in flights or high-performance cars on a race circuit. Its HLA motor delivers extremely fast, accurate and near-silent AF that far outperforms traditional stepping motors. Low-light environments such as concerts and floodlit pitches are no trouble thanks to the exclusive OS2 algorithm, providing an effective 5 stops* of stabilisation.
Professional feature-set
The lens is equipped with an AF/MF switch and a Focus Limiter switch that shortens the focus driving range. This stops the lens incorrectly focusing on objects either in front or behind the subject, speeding up focus acquisition.
The 500mm also features two OS modes. Mode 1 can be used for all types of photography to help reduce unwanted camera shake at slower shutter speeds. Mode 2 employs SIGMA’s intelligent OS algorithm for smoother panning shots – ideal for tracking a fast-paced object as it moves. Regardless of the orientation of the lens, the stabilisation is effective for both vertical and diagonal movement and doesn’t interfere with the panning motion.
By default, the Custom Mode switch can be used to change how the stabilisation is viewed through the viewfinder, whilst L-Mount users can customise the switch further by using a SIGMA UD-11 USB Dock. The dock can also be used to change how the OS operation works or fine-tune the Focus Limiter range.
The three AFL buttons found around the lens barrel can be set to a preferred camera function for easier handling.