Zenit Photosniper

Zenit Photosniper FS-3 [Zenit ES + Tair-3 300mm f/4.5] - Good Condition | Iconic Cold War Telephoto Kit

Step back in time with one of the most distinctive camera kits ever produced: the Zenit Photosniper. Originally designed for military and surveillance use, this complete set features the modified Zenit ES camera body paired with the razor-sharp Tair-3 Phs 300mm lens, all mounted on a dedicated rifle-style gunstock. This ergonomic design provides unparalleled stability for handheld telephoto shooting, allowing you to track moving subjects like wildlife or sports with ease. Beyond its unique appearance, the Tair-3 lens is famous for its 16-blade aperture, creating perfectly circular bokeh that modern lenses simply cannot replicate. This is a complete, collector-grade set including the metal trunk—a must-have for serious collectors and experimental photographers.

Key Features

• Gunstock Stabilization: The rifle-stock design transfers the weight to your shoulder and allows for steady shutter release via the trigger system.

• Tair-3 Phs Lens: A renowned 300mm f/4.5 prime lens (Grand Prix Brussels winner) known for high contrast and exceptional sharpness.

• 16-Blade Aperture: Produces creamy, perfectly round bokeh at any f-stop, making it a "bokeh monster" favorite.

• Zenit ES Body: Specially modified with a bottom-mounted shutter linkage to connect directly to the gunstock trigger.

• Dial Focusing: The lens features a unique "knob" focusing system on the underside, ergonomically placed for quick adjustments while holding the stock.

• M42 Mount: Both the lens and body utilize the universal M42 screw mount, allowing the lens to be adapted to modern digital cameras.

Condition Report

• Body (Zenit ES): Good Condition. Shows normal signs of vintage use. The shutter fires correctly via the gunstock trigger. The viewfinder is clear with minor dust typical of its age.

• Optics (Tair-3 Phs): Clear. The glass is free from fungus or separation. Minor internal dust may be present. The aperture blades are clean and oil-free.

• Mechanics: Fully functional. The trigger mechanism on the stock is responsive. The focus dial rotates smoothly.

• Serial Number: 4402 (Lens)

Specialist Note

"The Photosniper is more than just a novelty; it is a genuinely effective tool for long-lens photography. The stability you get from the shoulder stock is surprisingly good, often letting you shoot at slower shutter speeds than you could with a traditional setup. The Tair-3 lens is the real jewel here—its optical rendering is full of character. Finding a complete set with the case and filters is getting harder every year."

What’s Included

• Zenit ES Camera Body

• Tair-3 Phs 300mm f/4.5 Lens

• Metal Gunstock / Shoulder Stock

• Original Metal Trunk (Case)

• Rubber Eye Cup

• Filter Set (Yellow/Orange/Green typical)

• Screwdrivers / Tools

• Film Cassettes (Reloadable)

Technical Specifications

• Category: Film Cameras

• Camera: Zenit ES (Modified Zenit E)

• Lens: Tair-3 Phs 300mm f/4.5

• Mount: M42 Screw Mount

• Aperture Blades: 16

• Shutter Speeds: 1/30 - 1/500 + B

• Focus: Manual (Knob/Dial)

• Filter Thread: 72mm

• Weight: Approx. 2.9 kg (Complete Kit)