Nikon FM2 needs a forever lens

I like C-V lenses as much as the next guy, but for me a major part of the appeal of shooting Nikon is the Nikkors.
 
Hey, my FM2 is sitting unused and it's a shame. This camera is in near mint condition and I like using it. But I was using it with AF 50mm 1.4. I don't like that lens. When I did I side-by-side comparison with Konica AR lens, I much preferred the rendering of the latter. More contrast.

I want to get a good 35mm or 50mm manual lens and leave it on the Nikon. 28mm is not a focal length I enjoy. If you had to pick one good lens, which one would it be? This would be for walking about, street photography etc.

Thanks - really need your help in focusing my selection.

I've sold most of my Nikon gear now. What I kept was the Nikon F plain prism body and the Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5. I tend to prefer macro lenses for the kinds of subject I shoot.

If you want a good, fast 35mm lens, you cannot go wrong with the Nikkor 35mm f/2 AI-S. If you want a fast, standard 50mm, the Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 AI-S would be my choice; if you prefer a macro like I do, the Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/2.8 AI-S would be the one.

G
 
I would also support the 35mm 2 AIS for a combination of quality and versatility. I also have a 50mm 1.8 AIS, and it is sharp, sharp, sharp, but I have taken some photos with it that have truly jarring bokeh. Mine is a bit of a pancake lens, also, and I prefer a larger focus ring.
 
While you said you don't like 28mm glass, I still come back to one of the best Nikkors made, the 28/2.8 AI-S. That version is frankly wonderful, fun, and flexible. Focuses close, sharp, low distortion and fits the era of the FM2 perfectly.

Before I found the AI-S I never liked 28s either. I loved my 25 and all of my 35 felt natural, but I fell in love after a role. And as you never will take it off, I think it's your best bet for an overall all-around great lens.

B2 (;->
 
In / around the classical 35,50 FL, have the 50 1.4 AIS, 50 1.8 E, Zeiss ZF 35 f2 and CV Ultron 40mm.

WHile I like the idea of Nikkors on Nikon, and the pop and quality of the Zeiss, I think I would go with the little CV 40. Partly this is because it is closer to an RF in a package - light weight and smaller than most except the Series E, partly because it splits the 35 and 50 but also because with the accessory close focus filter you get that capability too.

Then of course I'd need a 28mm 2.8 AIS and one of the 105 Nikkor legends....
 
I agree with everyone...
For a zoom I really like the 35-105mm, compact, sharp, even has a micro option.

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