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02-28-2018, 05:58 AM   #1
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New vs. Old HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm

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Just ordered the new model HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm F4 5.8 ED WR for my Pentax k-r.

Since ordering I read a few things suggesting that the aperture on this lens is not adjustable for older model Pentax SLRs. I'm pretty much a total beginner so I'm having a hard time verifying this and figuring out if this makes the lens unusable.

Should I cancel my order and order the older model?

Any advice is GREATLY appreciated!

02-28-2018, 06:04 AM - 1 Like   #2
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QuoteOriginally posted by caldwell13 Quote
Just ordered the new model HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm F4 5.8 ED WR for my Pentax k-r.

Since ordering I read a few things suggesting that the aperture on this lens is not adjustable for older model Pentax SLRs. I'm pretty much a total beginner so I'm having a hard time verifying this and figuring out if this makes the lens unusable.

Should I cancel my order and order the older model?

Any advice is GREATLY appreciated!
So long as you didn't order the PLM version you are OK.
02-28-2018, 06:50 AM - 1 Like   #3
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The link shows the PLM model. You need one of the newer cameras for this (very nice) lens to operate properly. I believe that either the K30 or K50 (with upgraded firmware) or later. If you have an older one, you'll probably want the non-PLM one instead.

Can someone else validate the earliest model body that this lens works with?
02-28-2018, 06:57 AM   #4
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According to the specifics in our lens database, this lens isn't compatible with the K-r. Some older cameras were given a firmware update to allow use of this lens but your K-r isn't one of them.

QuoteQuote:
A DSLR launched in 2013 or later is needed to operate this new system (the K-500 is not compatible).
Cancel the order and buy the one that works, any of them before this one came out will work with your K-r.

02-28-2018, 06:59 AM   #5
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There is three variant of this lens:
The old SMC 55-300 F4-5.8 (with green ring),
the New HD 55-300 F4-5.8 WR (with red ring),
and the 55-300 F4-6.3 PLM RE (the recractable model)
The first two are working on the k-r while the third one only works with K-50, K-S2, K-3, K-3II, K-70, KP, K-1, K-1II. (And maybe with K-S1, I don't know.)
It seams you ordered the third one, which will NOT work on your k-r.
02-28-2018, 07:25 AM   #6
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Cancel your order.

As Spodeworld stated the link is for the PLM model (HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE) and not the HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm F4 5.8 ED WR you stated in your post. Repeat cancel the order.
02-28-2018, 07:38 AM   #7
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perhaps these charts might be useful to the OP and others

The Pentax Camera Lens Compatibility Chart

Pentax K-Mount Lenses Explained: The differences between various Pentax lens series

02-28-2018, 09:02 AM   #8
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If you ordered this you are OK
HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm F4 5.8 ED WR

If you ordered this it will not work on the K-R
Pentax HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE Lens

This PLM version is one of the only Pentax K lens that will not work on your camera.
02-28-2018, 09:46 AM   #9
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Thanks for helping out a beginner everyone! Consensus seems to be that I ordered an incompatible lens. I'll cancel the order and get the older model.

Much appreciated
02-28-2018, 10:17 AM   #10
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Understandable confusion, the Amazon header in the OP's link says 5.8 but the picture and words say 6.3.
02-28-2018, 10:48 AM   #11
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QuoteOriginally posted by caldwell13 Quote
Just ordered the new model HD PENTAX DA 55-300mm F4 5.8 ED WR for my Pentax k-r.

Since ordering I read a few things suggesting that the aperture on this lens is not adjustable for older model Pentax SLRs. I'm pretty much a total beginner so I'm having a hard time verifying this and figuring out if this makes the lens unusable.

Should I cancel my order and order the older model?

Any advice is GREATLY appreciated!
It is the PLM version see the photo. Amazon has the wrong header on the Add. It wont work on your K-r
02-28-2018, 10:58 AM   #12
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QuoteOriginally posted by Spodeworld Quote
The link shows the PLM model. You need one of the newer cameras for this (very nice) lens to operate properly. I believe that either the K30 or K50 (with upgraded firmware) or later. If you have an older one, you'll probably want the non-PLM one instead.

Can someone else validate the earliest model body that this lens works with?
Currently, the K-50*, K-3*, K-3 II*, K-70*, KP, K-1*, K-1 II and all newer models fully support KAF4 lenses and thus the new 55-300mm. (* = with firmware update)

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02-28-2018, 04:37 PM   #13
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Caldwell13 here is what you want at a great price
HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED WR - PentaxForums.com
03-01-2018, 11:41 AM - 1 Like   #14
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Check this out...crazy price! Pentax HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED WR Lens 22270 B&H Photo

Currently on sale $146!!!
03-01-2018, 11:58 AM   #15
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QuoteOriginally posted by Spodeworld Quote
Check this out...crazy price! Pentax HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED WR Lens 22270 B&H Photo

Currently on sale $146!!!
Absolute bargain.See what it can do

DA55-300WR | Flickr
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