Originally Posted by Trawlerman 
Some people look down on soviet glass as being inferior and whilst I can see their point to a certain extent, all I can say is try it. You'll be surprised at how nice some of this stuff is.
I really like the composition of the first image, also the sky looks amazing!
I agree with you completely, many people are missing a lot of good lenses just because they are made by a communist country. The most interesting part of using soviet lenses is that each brand and model has its distinctive look and character that cannot be found on most well known lenses made by Japanese or German makers.
I am far away from saying one is better than the other as this is subject to people's taste and perception, but what I'm trying to point is that you can have a different flavor in your "lens menu" for a very low price. I for example enjoy variety
I hope with this thread to popularize these fine lenses among the forum members here.