The latest optical design using exclusive low-dispersion glass elements has succeeded in achieving both an extremely compact lens construction and high optical performance with excellent correction of aberrations. In addition to its size that allows hand-held shooting, the high-speed AF with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) and the OS2 optical stabilization algorithm support comfortable shooting.

The latest optical design has succeeded in significantly downsizing the optical system for a 500mm ultra-telephoto lens. By utilizing exclusive low-dispersion convex elements at the front of the lens, the lens delivers both a high aberration correction capability and a short overall length. The high level of production technology at Sigma ’s only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory, provides the exacting precision necessary for processing the exclusive low-dispersion glass elements with a large aperture. The lens has excellent correction of all aberrations, especially axial chromatic aberration, which cannot be corrected by the camera body, ensuring a stable high resolution from the center to the periphery of the image.

The Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS | Sports uses refractive lenses in its optical system to prevent flare and ghosting that are characteristics of diffractive optical elements, allowing for clear images without concern for flare or ghosting even in backlit conditions or when a light source is included in the image. Furthermore, measures are taken against all conditions of incident light based on state-of-the-art simulation technology.

A linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) is used for the actuator, which is characterized by its high driving accuracy owing to the advanced electronic control, as well as its quietness. The HLA enables fast and accurate autofocus even in ultra-telephoto photography, such as sports and bird, where extremely precise focusing is required.

The latest OS2 optical stabilization algorithm provides an outstanding image stabilization effect of 5.0 stops^*. The lens is equipped with two OS modes: Mode 1 is suitable for general shooting, and Mode 2 is ideal for panning shots of motorsports and other sports. In Mode 2, Sigma’s Intelligent OS, an algorithm specially designed for panning shots, enables effective image stabilization even when the camera is moved vertically or diagonally, irrespective of the horizontal and vertical orientation. This ensures that the subject’s movement can be captured without losing the panning shot effect.

* Based on CIPA guidelines (Measured at 500mm with a 35mm full-frame image sensor)

The lens body has been designed to be small and lightweight in line with the optical system, which has been made significantly more compact. Not only is the lens easy to handle in hand-held use, but it also has the weather resistance of Sigma’s Sports line specifications and the excellent build quality that Sigma prides itself on in terms of texture and the operating quality of each ring and control.

In order to achieve such a compact, lightweight and robust body, materials such as TSC and magnesium have been used in appropriate places. In particular, the production of a large TSC part that integrates functions as an internal structure, as well as an exterior part to reduce size and weight of the lens are manufactured with micron-level precision and they also have a sleek finish that gives the lens its premium feel. The sophisticated processing and production technology of the Aizu factory, Sigma’s only manufacturing base in Japan, enables the high degree of precise production and ensures the high performance and durability of the lens.

* TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) is a type of polycarbonate with a thermal expansion rate similar to that of aluminum. It has a high affinity to metal parts which contributes to high quality product manufacturing.

The mount joints, manual focus ring, zoom ring, custom switches, and exterior joints are all protected from dust and splash by a dust- and splash-resistant structure*1. Further, the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and oil-repellent coating to facilitate maintenance when water droplets or dust adhere to the lens.

*1. The structure is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.

A new tripod socket, TS-171, has been designed with its use as a carrying handle in mind, featuring a longer base and wider spacing between it and the lens. The tripod ring incorporates a 90° click mechanism, allowing for smooth and secure rotation, and the foot is compatible with Arca-Swiss type clamps.

There are various functions to support shooting, including AFL buttons in three different locations, a focus mode switch, a focus limiter switch, an OS switch (Mode 1/2), and a custom mode switch.