You don't specify which Nikon DSLR you're using. The D70, D70s, D50 and Maybe the D100 won't meter with non autofocus lenses. Older AI or AIS lenses won't meter so you'll be shooting trial and error. But if you're using the higher end bodies, the older lenses will meter just fine. Because of the sensor size in the Nikon bodies, you'll be using the sweet spot (center) of the older lenses. Those are some of the issues you need to consider before making a purchase. I would trust Thom Hogan's web site for reviews over Ken Rockwell's site. Thom writes eBooks for a lot of Nikon equipment. Here's a link to Thom Hogan's web site

Kim,

dSLR sensors show a strong fall-off as the angle of the light falling onto the sensor increases. There are several ways to compensate for this fall-off, both in the design of the sensor and of the lens. Presumably, the best combination for Nikon dSLRs (with optimized sensors) is to use Nikon's DX lenses. Another advantage of these lenses is that they are smaller, lighter and lower in cost than their 35mm equivalents. This also means that using 35mm lenses on dSLRs will result in lower quality images, especially for shorter focal lengths.
Now, it is hard for most people, including myself, to verify these claims. However, I believe Nikon to be a company with integrity and to be upfront and honest with their customers. So I tend to listen to what they say and believe them. They have not disappointed me in the 15 years that I have used their gear. Given Nikon's statements that for the foreseeable future they will not introduce dSLRs with full-size sensor, I believe that buying DX lenses at this time is a safe investment.

Frans Waterlander
frans2001@netzero.net

Just My HO, but! Both Ken and Thom are very opinionated. Ken, being a little more"over the top" is fun to read, and Thom has a nice dry wit. BUT, neither is right 100% of the time. I find I disagree with them both about equally, on different things. They aren't wrong, nor am I, we're just trying to do different things with whats available. The one thing about "off" brand lenses is there may be or is a different color cast, which if you're shooting film can be a problem, but with digital, a simple action in PS can alter that color cast. If you have the FOV that you use covered, you don't need to replace your lenses.

Bron

From experience i can say two things. 1. DX lenses are not cheaper. Ex: 17-35. 2. The lenses designed before the proliferation of Digital are built better and will last longer than the DX lenses. So maybe nikon hasnt unleashed the full frame digital body we are waiting for, but when they do, do you think that those DX lenses will work on it? Im not convinced, but i know my 35-70 and 24mm lenses work great on my digital, my film, and on the long awaited full frame Digital body, where ever it may be...

The 17-35 f2.8 is not a DX Nikkor. It is a full frame 35mm film lens.