The king of super telephotos, the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR is the longest lens in Nikon's lineup, and with it brings one of the most advanced optical designs along with superior focusing and VR performance and full weather-sealing. The lens construction features a pair of extra-low dispersion glass elements along with two fluorite elements, which enhance sharpness, clarity, and color rendering by reducing a variety of aberrations. The fluorite elements also contribute to a lighter overall weight. Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to the optical system in order to minimize flare and ghosting when working in bright and backlit conditions.

Beyond the optics, this super tele is also characterized by a Silent Wave Motor, which produces fast, near-silent autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override. Further contributing to photographing in fast-paced situations and difficult lighting, VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by up to 4.5 stops. Additionally, an electromagnetic aperture mechanism is integrated into the lens design to provide greater exposure control stability that is especially beneficial when working with faster continuous shooting rates.

In addition to the lens itself, the AF-S Teleconverter TC800-1.25E ED is included, and its 1.25x magnification increases the effective focal length to 1000mm. Its dedicated design includes one extra-low dispersion element to maintain the optical qualities of the lens, and it also retains AF and VR capabilities.