Nikon 85mm 1.8D; Hood & Cap

[Euro7r]

I acquired the Nikon 85mm 1.8D this past weekend and it came with the HN-23 hood. However, I find it annoying at times to pinch the cap in order to place it inside the hood to cover up my lens. I've read online that, some people use a 77mm size cap to cover up their lens as it fits directly on the lens hood. Anyone with this lens, what methods do you guys use that works well?

Also, would getting a filter be necessary for this lens because the hood seems to be deep, and protected quite well.

Any suggestions/recommendations would greatly be appreciated.

[MadMax]

Why not just take the hood off in between uses. It takes like .3 seconds to do. I keep three lens in my bag and one on the body and while I have them in the bag the hood is on backward. When I put one of these lenses on the body I take the cap off, flip the hood around and I'm good.

[addicted]

the hn-23 is a metal screw on hood. when on backwards it doesnt mount to anything. just kinda rolls around in your bag.

i use a 77mm cap on mine, with the hood on. seems to work fine for me.