The Nikon 600mm f6.3, Popular With Birders, Gets Suspended

Nikon has some wonderful lenses in their portfolio for young photographers. Models such as the 40mm f2, the 24-120 f4, and the 600mm f6.3 are some budget offerings from the company. It now appears that Nikon is suspending the order of the 600mm lens, effective from August. Why is that the case? Let’s dive in.

What Has Happened?

In a new article by Asobinet, Nikon has made an announcement on the company’s Japan website, stating that the Z 600mm f6.3 VR S, will be suspended effective August 8, 2026. The statement was brief and apologetic. The company acknowledged that they are unable to deliver the lenses to the users, and that it would “take some time to deliver the product to the customer due to production convenience.” The catch here is that the company has not disclosed when the lens will be back in stock.

Nikon’s USA website does not list the same, which means the out-of-stock issue is only prevalent in Japan. The phrase “production reasons” is also drawing some concerns, especially since the company has not given any reasons for the same. Had they indicated that there would be some component shortage, then one would not feel so left out. Moreover, the lack of a timeline makes the news murky.

The Nikon 600mm was launched in 2023, and earned praise for offering a long range, image stabilization, and is also priced well. In our review of the lens, we praised how it is a lens that can be utilized across genres. As we added in our review:

I’d argue it’s an all-day kind of lens if you’re out on a wildlife safari or even birding in the forests. You might want to carry a monopod at times to get a bit of a rest, but it isn’t a lens that would wear you out. Image results are sharp, and the autofocus motor keeps up with the fast tracking even from champs like the Nikon Z8.

Given how incredible the lens has been, pulling it closer to its third anniversary raises some eyebrows.

Is There a New Patent in The Works?

While there is not a direct patent for the Nikon 600mm, there are expectations of Z 120-300mm f2.8 TC VR S, as well as primes Z 85mm f1.4, which will complete the 35mm and 50mm f1.4 trio. There is also a new design patent, but that helps to eliminate lens vibration. But other than that, there aren’t many expectations yet.

The company has announced that 2026 will be a slower year, with 2027 being expected to see more activity. The suspension of the 600mm could be a part of a transition, perhaps, the clearing of inventory or production capacity before the next operation.

The Financial Picture

The suspension also comes at a time when there is financial uncertainty. Nikon’s Q1 report ending on March 31, 2026, has caused a stir. The company’s imaging business has been suffering, with camera sales falling from 270,000 to 210,000 units, while the lens sales dropping from 370,000 to 310,000 units. Given the numbers falling, the suspension of the lens raises questions if more lenses will follow suit.

Those who have been meaning to purchase the lens will have to wait. Nikon may be able to revive the production before rebates begin. However, until then, we will have to wait and see.