SIRUI has announced the expansion of their Sniper series with the addition of two new autofocus prime lenses: the 16mm and 75mm f/1.2. These lenses are designed for FUJIFILM X, Nikon Z, and Sony E cameras, and are now available through SIRUI’s Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign.
Introduction to SIRUI’s Sniper Series
In November last year, SIRUI, a renowned Chinese manufacturer of lenses and accessories, introduced its Sniper line of prime lenses, marking the company’s first foray into autofocus lenses. The initial release included three APS-C primes: 23mm, 33mm, and 56mm, all featuring a fast f/1.2 aperture and autofocus capability. Earlier this year, CineD provided an exclusive look behind the scenes at SIRUI’s lens production, including the Sniper primes.
New Additions: 16mm and 75mm f/1.2 Lenses
The new 16mm and 75mm f/1.2 lenses expand the Sniper series, which now includes the following models:
- 16mm f/1.2 (full-frame equivalent of approximately 24mm f/1.8)
- 23mm f/1.2 (full-frame equivalent of approximately 35mm f/1.8)
- 33mm f/1.2 (full-frame equivalent of approximately 50mm f/1.8)
- 56mm f/1.2 (full-frame equivalent of approximately 84mm f/1.8)
- 75mm f/1.2 (full-frame equivalent of approximately 113mm f/1.8)
The 16mm lens features a 13-blade aperture, while the 75mm lens has a 15-blade aperture, both ranging from f/1.2 to f/16. Their minimum focusing distances are 0.3m for the 16mm and 0.7m for the 75mm.
Optical Features and Autofocus
Both lenses incorporate ED and high refractive index glass elements, along with an HD nano-coating to minimize flare and ghosting. SIRUI claims effective control over distortion and optical aberration. The 16mm lens includes extra aspherical elements to further reduce size.
The autofocus system uses an STM motor, promising accurate, quick, and silent performance suitable for both stills and video. The lenses also feature minimal focus breathing, according to SIRUI.
The lenses come with a wide, textured focusing ring located at the front, offering a 360° focus throw and electronic manual focus for enhanced grip and control.
Physical Specifications and Mount Options
Designed to be similar in size and weight to the existing Sniper primes, the 16mm lens weighs 384g (0.8 lbs) and the 75mm lens weighs 466g (1 lb), with each having a length of 94mm (3.7″). Both lenses feature a USB-C port for firmware updates, with front filter thread sizes of 58mm (16mm) and 67mm (75mm). Available in three colors – black, silver, and white – these lenses are compatible with FUJIFILM X, Nikon Z, and Sony E mounts.
Pricing and Availability
The new SIRUI Sniper 16mm and 75mm f/1.2 lenses are currently available through SIRUI’s Indiegogo campaign, with early bird prices at 20% off. Each lens is priced at $319 during the campaign (regular retail price $399), while a set of both lenses is available for $638 (regular retail price $798). Each lens package includes lens caps, a matching-color lens hood, and a carrying pouch, with a lens case provided for the 2-lens kit.
Unlike many crowdfunded products that are still in development, SIRUI’s lenses are finalized, assembled, tested, and ready for shipping. The Indiegogo campaign runs until July 18, offering a window for early bird discounts before the lenses become available through SIRUI’s online shop and regular vendors.
