[LSR]

So I'm about to pull the trigger on purchasing the DA*50-135. I feel very comfortable with the K10D after learning to use it right with the kit lens and old F(A) 35-80 and 80-200. I like to shoot everything I possibly can and don't really specialize on any one thing.

So I thought I'd start building up my bag with some fast, quality glass like the 50-135.

Is there any reason I shouldn't buy one? Am I missing a lens which would be a better use of my money?

I really respect the opinions of people on this forum, don't always listen to them or agree, but I really do value what people on here take the time to write.

Cheers in advance for any replies!

[montezuma]

I think it's a good choice. I'm looking at it too right now and I'd rather get the new 70-200mm f2.8 macro from sigma, but they haven't made it yet so I'm really thinking about the 50-135. I've never used it but all the reviews I read said it was very good except I don't like the fact that the focal length is so short, otherwise it should be a good choice though if you're willing to wait I'd get the new sigma 70-200 whenever it comes out.

[metalfab]

Is there any reason I shouldn't buy one? Am I missing a lens which would be a better use of my money?

Cheers in advance for any replies!

Really depends on your shooting. Honestly though, its the most used lens in my bag when outdoors, even in certain indoor situations too. The 50-135 is sharp throughout the range and the color rendition is bang on. My 18-50 has its place but, usage is low since the 50-135 purchase. If I was allowed only 1 lens, the 50-135 would be it.

[bigben91682]

I have to agree with the previous poster, all around great lense that gets a ton of use on both my camera bodies. Like you said the focal range is short, but quite versatile. I think you will be suprised how this becomes the lens to use for a variety of situations.

[LSR]

I was also considering the Tamron 70-200 f2.8 when it finally comes out, but it isn't dust sealed, and the focusing system doesn't seem as good as the DA*. I just got back from a trip to ancient Rome where the dirt flies around all over the place and must have entered through my lens as I didn't change lenses there, dust sealed could be a great feature for my future use. The Tamron is only supposed to be about $50 cheaper than the Pentax too, but the little extra range and the Tamron warranty is nice.

I also thought about the Pentax DA* 60-250 f4, but who knows when it will come out, the price might be a lot higher, and I really want a fast f2.8 lens......

I don't want to regret buying the DA* 50-135mm, spending that kind of $$ on a hobby makes me want to make an informed decision. Thanks again for all comments!

[axl]

For me there IS one reason why not to buy it. Yes only one. :
PRICE

[amoringello]

Cannot think of one.
Sturdy high quality lens. (not sure of if I'd say the same of its little brother the 16-50!)

In fact I once had the K10D w/ the 50-135 on a tripod with the mount turned sideways... of course the cemera slid out of the mount... It and the lens went crashing to the floor below (more than three feet!!). Lucky carpeted floor and the whole thing landed perfectly flat to the impact was spread out, but still, I would not have expected the lens or camera to have survived.
It has been a year later, and no signs of mis-alignmet or leaky seals, etc...

I always have it with me. Whereas, I will sometimes trade the DA* 16-50 for the kit 18-55 just for weight considerations.

[k100d]

what are you using it for?
consider the FA77 if you need the speed and are doing a lot of portraits

[vizjerei]

I have a question, Does it has the old screw focus or it only has the SDM? thanks

[thePiRaTE!!]

I have a question, Does it has the old screw focus or it only has the SDM? thanks

DA*16-50, 50-135, 200 & 300 have both. Supposedly, no others will.

[vizjerei]

Thanks Pirate~ good to have a backup focus system

[MJB DIGITAL]

it has both focus modes and it is RAD. i really love that lens.

it is sort of a long lens...longer than i need for weddings really.

i love it.

i have that on one k10d and the 16-50 on the other. i love em both.

no doubts here...

[lkvoyager]

I have been a Pentax user since '82 and this lens comes the closest to a prime that I have ever seen. This lens has convinced me I will never again be happy with non DA* lenses with the exception of the 16-45 F4.0.
I get all my Pentax equipment at Abesofmaine.com which has the best prices and free shipping.

All the photos @ Lynne Kantor's Photo Galleries at pbase.com were taken with the 50-135

[praxxis]

Thanks Pirate~ good to have a backup focus system

seems that'll be your next target lens

it has both focus modes and it is RAD. i really love that lens.

it is sort of a long lens...longer than i need for weddings really.

i love it.

i have that on one k10d and the 16-50 on the other. i love em both.

no doubts here...

what's RAD?

if ever i have the dough for this, this is also what i had in my mind to use it for some indoor events... 135mm is ideally suited for weddings... though you lack the wide fl with it, but this would probably complement 16-50 or the upcoming 17-70

[Wethphotography]

So I'm about to pull the trigger on purchasing the DA*50-135. I feel very comfortable with the K10D after learning to use it right with the kit lens and old F(A) 35-80 and 80-200. I like to shoot everything I possibly can and don't really specialize on any one thing.

So I thought I'd start building up my bag with some fast, quality glass like the 50-135.

Is there any reason I shouldn't buy one? Am I missing a lens which would be a better use of my money?

I really respect the opinions of people on this forum, don't always listen to them or agree, but I really do value what people on here take the time to write.

Cheers in advance for any replies!

If you prefer zooms, I consider it the finest Pentax zoom available. Outstanding image quality, quick focus on K10D in good light, not as heavy as FF f2.8 lenses, balances well on K10D. If I could shoot only 2 lenses I would choose the 50-135 and FA 31mm.
Best wishes,