Originally posted by krendel154 Unfortunately, replies of some members (dgaies & robgo2) is not so pleasant for me as a new pentaxian and as the person who create his first thread in Pentaxforums. I can see that both of you have a lot of posts in this forum. All of these posts are making fun at people? I think you know more than I know about photography but it doesn't give you right to make fun at new Pentaxforums member.
Of course, I was having some fun, and I erroneously expected that you might have a sense of humor. The vast majority of my posts on this forum are constructive, and I avoid personal attacks, so please do not make unfounded generalizations about me.
Now, for a serious answer to your question. The general consensus is that the FA31 is one of, if not the finest lens ever made by Pentax. It and the other FA Limited lenses have gorgeous rendering qualities that impart a unique character to images they produce. Construction is superb. That is why the FA31 is so expensive.
That said, the DA40 is also an excellent lens with many devoted fans. Personally, in that focal length range, I would choose the FA43 for all the reasons stated above. As to your lens choice, much depends upon your preferred focal length and your budget. 31mm is probably a better general purpose focal length, but that really is a matter of personal taste and shooting style. I can tell you that almost no one ever regrets owning an FA Limited.
Rob