Abbreviation: RF = "Rear Focus" (Sigma)

The abbreviation RF means "Rear Focus" and is seen on Sigma products.

Explanation from Sigma

This lens is equipped with a system that moves the rear lens group for highspeed, silent focusing.

Conventional focusing has normallybeen performed by moving either all lens groups as a fixed unit or onlythe first lens group. AF cameras are now widely used, even for close-upphotography. Consequently, demand has arisen for a focusing system thatwill keep the length of the lens unchanged while showing little fluctuationof aberration. In response to this demand, SIGMA has developed a newinner focus system that moves two lens groups inside the telephoto andtelephoto MACRO lenses. This system has floating elements thatsubstantially improve the close-upcapability of the lens. The superwide angle lens having a large front-lens uses a rear focusing system tomove the rear-lens apparatus andenhance the floating effect, and the18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC features aninner focusing system to move thesecondary lens group duringfocusing. This lens has a minimumfocusing distance of 45 cm / 17.7inch th

See examples of effected products

Sigma EX 20mm F1.8 DG ASP RF

See links

sigmaphoto.com
sigma-photo.co.jp