The Nikkor 35mm f/2 AI-S is the practical storytelling lens in my Nikon manual-focus set. I bought my copy used from Japan in 2015 and splurged for the AI-S version despite the higher price, because 35mm was my most-used focal length at the time.

Before this lens, I was using an older Nikkor-S 35mm f/2.8 non-AI, marked Nippon Kogaku, which definitely had a look of its own. The 35mm f/2 AI-S feels more refined while still keeping that classic Nikon manual-focus character.

It is not a clinically modern 35mm, but that is also the point. It is small, fast enough for real-world film work, and wide enough to include context without feeling exaggerated. For travel, documentary walks, people in place, and everyday 35mm film photography, it makes a lot of sense.

The Good:

• One of the best 35mm legacy Nikkor lenses, even if the 35mm f/1.4 is more iconic and collectible.

• 35mm is an ideal documentary and travel focal length.

• f/2 gives useful low-light flexibility while staying reasonably sharp.

• 52mm filter thread is great if you already use filters across older Nikkor lenses.

• Compact, durable, and easy to carry.

• Strong match for Nikon F3-style shooting.

The Bad:

• Not as clinically corrected as modern 35mm lenses.

• Can show vintage wide-angle character wide open.

• Good copies are increasingly valued.

• If you already use 28mm and 50mm, the 35mm may overlap.

• Get it if you want an excellent 35mm for a Nikon film camera or adapted digital setup.

• Get it if you want a compact documentary lens with real manual-focus feel.

• Get it if 35mm is your main storytelling focal length.

• Pass if you want the more collectible 35mm f/1.4 instead.

• Pass if you need modern edge-to-edge performance wide open.