Is this old lead lens safe?

luigi454

I'm interested in the Nikon 28mm f1/1.4 lens. However I herd it was discontinued because it has lead in it. I'm just wondering which part contains the lead and would it be safe to use?

heartyfisher

Isnt this like the most expensive lens ?

I think the lead is only an issue in the manufacture and disposal of the lense elements.

Ironheart

Lead is only poisonous to humans if ingested. Don't eat the lens or lick your fingers after handling and you'll be fine.

spraynpray

What? Don't lick the lens? How the heck are you supposed to clean it? 8-}

luigi454

my guess is that if there is lead actually present on the lense it'll be on some component inside or soldering inside?

moreorless

my guess is that if there is lead actually present on the lense it'll be on some component inside or soldering inside?

Its in the glass isn't it? I'm guessing the manufacture of such glass potentially leads to lead population.

Ironheart

Lead does increase the refractive index of glass, but also increases the dispersion which means that a lens using leaded glass must have chromatic correction applied to be considered achromatic. People have been consuming beverages from leaded glass for centuries, so I wouldn't be particularly concerned. Yes, if you are in a plant that is manufacturing lead or leaded glass, you probably need to take precautions to prevent poisoning.

Bottom line, don't worry about it.

Parke1953

I have been fishing since I was about 7 years old crimping split shot on the line with my teeth and I'm just fine. I am now over 60. LOL @-)

TaoTeJared

I'm interested in the Nikon 28mm f1/1.4 lens. However I herd it was discontinued because it has lead in it. I'm just wondering which part contains the lead and would it be safe to use?

Like Ironheart said the lead is in the glass - if that is the case - first I have heard of that. Even if it does, You can lick it, eat it, even take it to bed with you and you will be just fine.

Around that time many manufacturing processes were changed that dealt with lead, but I have never heard that was the reason for such a short run of that lens - very well could be, but not because the Lens itself was dangerous. It was really expensive to produce then, and was a great lens - but also a very specialty lens that few could afford. If Nikon had to update it's process or shut down the manufacturing due to new regulations, it may have been cheaper to shut everything down.

luigi454

It's a pretty amazing lens. Now that you mention the lead those crystal drinking glasses I remember that people use to eat with pewter cutlery. Apparently it's totally safe unless you heat them up.

haroldp

It's a pretty amazing lens. Now that you mention the lead those crystal drinking glasses I remember that people use to eat with pewter cutlery. Apparently it's totally safe unless you heat them up.

Leaded glass is safe, so is properly fired and glazed pottery (US or European production, Japan also has stringent standards). Pewter is OK for occasional brief contact. Do not store foods, particularly those with acid sauces (tomato etc.) in pewter, the lead will leach out into the food. A few years of this and you may buy Canon.

You would have to grind a lens and eat it to have a lead issue, it is completely encapsulated in the glass.

Regards ... H

luigi454

Cool. Thanks all.

Ironheart

Now lets see some pics!

kyoshinikon

If you are still interested in eating the lens, blendtec has a nice product that can help in grinding it. :P

The 24mm is a beautiful lens and like the rest said it shouldn't be viewed as a health hazard. Post pics in the PAD soon

DaveO

If you're worried about the lead in a lens, don't let anyone give you a lead crystal goblet or glass to drink out of at Thanksgiving. Especially wine!

spraynpray

I used to carry a few airgun pellets in my mouth when I was a kid for quick reloading and that didn't do me any harm... 8-} )

Say what? Explains what?

Msmoto

@spraynpray

Thanks for your explanation…. )