Quick answer

If you've lost the Nikon HB-31 hood for your 17-55mm f/2.8 lens, a compatible replacement like the Fotodiox HB-31 style hood restores flare protection and impact defense for about $6.

Why the right hood matters

The HB-31 is a bayonet-mount hood designed specifically for the Nikon AF-S 17-55mm f/2.8G ED DX lens. Using a generic or mismatched hood can cause vignetting at wide angles or fail to block stray light effectively. The original HB-31 has a petal shape that matches the lens's field of view, so a direct replacement keeps your images contrasty and flare-free without compromising the frame corners.

Trade-offs with third-party hoods

Third-party replacements like the Fotodiox HB-31 style hood are made from high-impact plastic rather than the OEM's ABS. They're significantly cheaper—around $6 versus $20–30 for a used original—but the plastic may feel slightly less rigid. In practice, the flare reduction and impact protection are identical for most shooters. The trade-off is a small savings in weight and cost versus a marginal difference in build feel.

Diagnosis: Lost HB-31 Hood

  • Symptom: Your Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 lens has no hood attached. You notice more lens flare, reduced contrast in backlit scenes, or a higher risk of scratching the front element.
  • Likely cause: The original HB-31 hood was misplaced, dropped, or not stored with the lens. Bayonet hoods can easily fall off if not clicked into place, or they get left behind after a shoot.
  • Corrective action: Confirm your lens is the Nikon AF-S 17-55mm f/2.8G ED DX. Purchase a compatible HB-31 replacement hood such as the Fotodiox HB-31 style hood. Align the bayonet marks on the hood with the lens, twist clockwise until it clicks, and verify no vignetting at 17mm. If the hood does not click into place or shows play, stop using it—an unsecured hood can fall off and damage the lens.
  • When to stop or choose another option: If your lens is not the 17-55mm f/2.8 DX, the HB-31 hood will not fit. Check the lens barrel for the exact model number. For other lenses, search for the specific hood model (e.g., HB-32, HB-35) or use a universal screw-in hood with the correct filter thread size.

Product facts