Originally posted by rptdc I just read the review linked from this site comparing the Tamron with the Pentax 100mm f/2.8 WR D FA Macro Lens. May go with the Pentax after reading the review. Both sound like good lenses. Size and simplicity of the Pentax seems appealing.
did you read the in depth review of the D FA 100m Macro WR itself ??
one of the interesting things is this:
" Pentax-D FA 100mm F2.8 Macro WR
Specifications
The SMC Pentax-D FA 100mm Macro F2.8 WR is the fourth version of this particular autofocus macro design. The series started with the F 100mm, followed by the FA 100mm, and more recently the D FA 100mm (non-WR).
These four lenses share the same optical formula. The most recent D FA version with WR offers several improvements when compared to the previous models: weather sealing, rounded aperture blades, a smaller 49mm filter diameter, a metal barrel, quick-shift focusing and SP coatings. However, it lacks the focus clamp, aperture ring, and/or focus limiter found on some of the earlier models. "
Read more at:
Pentax-D FA 100mm F2.8 Macro WR Review - Specifications | PentaxForums.com Reviews
if cost is important and you are willing to give up WR and the other different features, you might find an " experienced " D FA 100mm macro or F 100mm, or the FA 100mm be suitable
I purchased an " experienced " D FA 100mm macro from the market place and am quite happy with it. You may want to check out the reviews of the F 100mm, followed by the FA 100mm, and more recently the D FA 100mm (non-WR).