Originally posted by CRMassart The k-mount adapter does not lock when I mount it on the camera.
If the owner is using a Chinese knock-off adapter and has removed the locking tab (a very good idea) then no, the lens will not lock in like a regular k-mount lens. The official Pentax adapter works fine and will lock in properly. Many of the knock-offs have a tab that is supposed to lock-in the lens but often cause it to lock in permanently and cannot be removed without a lot of trouble, so many people remove the tab.
I use my 400mm f5.6 in this manner and have no problems. Mine does have a tripod mount though.
Originally posted by CRMassart mounted on the camera all the lense info text is on the bottom side of the camera
This seems to be luck of the draw depending on how the adapter and lens are threaded. Some M42 lenses will show the info on top, others on the bottom. I think different adapters end up with different placement as well. So that is basically normal though unfortunate.