Schneider APO-Tele-Xenar Compact 400mm f/5.6

Schneider Apo-Tele-Xenar Compact 400mm f/5.6 is the field-portable long-telephoto — same 400mm focal length and apochromatic correction as the HM variant, in a more compact and lightweight package optimized for field use rather than studio MTF.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 1 shutter (1s to 1/400, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 400mm (effective)
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~200mm at f/22 — covers 4×5 with limited movements
• Optical formula: apochromatic telephoto, compact-optimized
• Multi-coating standard
• Lighter and shorter than the HM variant for field-camera practicality

Use case + rendering

The 400 Apo-Tele-Xenar Compact is the landscape long-tele for 4×5 photographers who carry their kits on foot. Trades the HM's peak MTF for reduced weight and bulk — appropriate when the choice is between this lens and "no 400mm at all" because the HM variant is too heavy for the kit.

Compatible cameras

• Toyo 45A / Toyo 45AII / Toyo 45G
• Cambo SC / Cambo Calumet 45NX
• Graflex Speed Graphic / Graflex Super Graphic

Related lenses

• Schneider Apo-Tele-Xenar HM 400mm f/5.6 — studio-grade HM variant
• Schneider Tele-Xenar 360mm f/5.5 — wider tele