Trying to decide how to proceed.

**csa** · 01-06-2019, 06:56 PM

Originally posted by ChristianRock

If budget is no problem... I think the DA 20-40 Limited and the DA*60-250 would cover the gap rather nicely

I'd love the DA*60-250; but the SDM not being able to be converted holds me back.

**csa** · 01-06-2019, 06:57 PM

Originally posted by mikesbike

DA* 50-135mm

Been reading the reviews on this one as well!

**UncleVanya** · 01-06-2019, 07:15 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by csa

I'd love the DA*60-250; but the SDM not being able to be converted holds me back.

I've converted over 100 lenses. I've only been asked twice about the 60-250 that I recall. It appears far more robust than most SDM lenses. But I understand your reluctance.

Docrwm · 01-06-2019, 07:15 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by csa

Docrwm Excellent information on the FA 28-105! I really appreciate this; as this really helps if I decide to go for a 28-105.

Thanks!

No problem. They're cheap enough these days that, frankly, catch-and-release if you don't like one would only really end up costing you time.

**csa** · 01-06-2019, 09:43 PM

I like catch-and-release!

**Papa_Joe** · 01-07-2019, 02:04 AM

Just my 2cents concerning the DA 18 - 138.

I bought it as a walk around lens and I am quite content with it but I would never recommend it for landscape or wildlife. The lens is outstandig to good in center sharpness over the whole range of its focal length. But the edges and borders loose sharpness from 50 mm (still good) to 135 mm where the fall off in sharpness at the border is visible which I would not like in an lens for landscape or wildlife.

Thus, as has been said, you have to replace the 18-55, 28-105 and 70-300 with two lenses. The recommendations already given, are covering your possibilities. I would only bring to mind the DA 17-70 / f 4.0 which has an very good IQ over it's complete focal range without any flaws and recommends itself as a landscape zoom. The 16 - 85 is still a bit better of course.

Wasp · 01-07-2019, 03:14 AM

Have you considered the Sigma 120-400mm f/4-5.6? It will go well with an 18-135mm. The downside is that is big and heavy but the extra reach would be useful for wildlife.

Sigma 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG APO OS HSM Lens Reviews - Sigma Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database

**Papa_Joe** · 01-07-2019, 03:25 AM

I just had a look at a test of the Tamron AF 70-300 and have to add it to the list of good budget zooms. Dirt cheap and higher resolution as the 55-300 but lacks in contrast from 200 mm onwards if not stopped down.

**aslyfox** · 01-07-2019, 03:52 AM

I bought an old Tamron AF 70-300mm F/4-5.6 LD Tele-Macro [1:2] (Model 772D) in 2015

Read more at: Tamron AF 70-300mm F/4-5.6 LD Tele-Macro [1:2] (Model 772D) Lens Reviews - Tamron Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database

it did quite well

so I would guess that newer models are good

Gary H Perth · 01-07-2019, 05:18 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by csa

The lenses I have that are keepers are:

Tamron 10-24
Sigma Macro 105
Sigma 300
Tamron 500 Mirror

I have the Pentax 18-55, a couple of ProMasters that I'd want to replace.

I want to cover the lower end from the Tamron, and up to the Sigma 300. I don't know whether to go with a zoom(s), or primary lenses. I can't spend more than about $500 for first addition(s) right now. I know that's not a good budget, but I will have to proceed slowly to build my lineup.

If primaries, which ones? I will say I prefer zooms, but of course have never looked thru a limited primary.

I'm definitely planning on the 21 ltd. Also been looking at the DA*18-135.

My main photography is wildlife, landscape.

So you are keeping a good wide-angle (the Tamron) a tele-macro and a long tele. I have both the 18-135 and the 16-85 and both are good all-day lenses, the 16-85 is better image quality but significantly heavier.

I am currently now trying out the Sigma 18-250 Macro HSM, which seems quite sharp but I have not yet got the in-camera tweaks right. This weighs about the same as the 16-85mm. It won't be a software issue for you, as it was released about 5 years ago, and it is not as sharp as the 16-85, but with good handling it may compare with the Pentax 18-135, and give much longer reach for wildlife shooting. I gave up on the lens a few years ago when I had a basic old DSLR which lost quality at high ISO, now I have a K70 with good IQ up to about 6400ISO. If I get to do some more tests in next few days I will let you know how it goes, it would be another catch-and-release exercise to see if it suits. Of course there is also a Pentax of similar focal length range, but much more expensive.

Btw, I have a 21mm Limited on order for the times when IQ matters most at the wide end.

**pepperberry farm** · 01-07-2019, 05:40 AM - **1 Like**

looks like its time to move up to either pro zooms or good primes for the focal lengths you are wanting to cover...

at the long end - are you happy with your Sigma 300? If not, start looking for a good used F* or FA* 300mm...

at the short end - DA 35 Limited, DA 70 Limited would be a start for primes..

but if you're sold on buying zooms, start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty...

**csa** · 01-07-2019, 08:49 AM

Originally posted by pepperberry farm

are you happy with your Sigma 300?

I've been very happy with it. I have no way to compare it to a Pentax, and unless I'd sell it, I couldn't get a Pentax. I wouldn't be happy if I didn't see any improvement in images in a Pentax, after selling the Sigma. I have wondered if I would be happier with a F* or FA* 300; but...........

"start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty"

The only way I'll buy a SDM is if it can be converted. Even with a warranty, I probably would be without the lense for months if the SDM failed.

Docrwm · 01-07-2019, 09:14 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by csa

I've been very happy with it. I have no way to compare it to a Pentax, and unless I'd sell it, I couldn't get a Pentax. I wouldn't be happy if I didn't see any improvement in images in a Pentax, after selling the Sigma. I have wondered if I would be happier with a F* or FA* 300; but...........

"start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty"

The only way I'll buy a SDM is if it can be converted. Even with a warranty, I probably would be without the lense for months if the SDM failed.

I have to say I stayed away from the SDM lenses for the same reasons. IQ is great but a paperweight on the end of your camera, or waiting for it to be fixed or modified, doesn't appeal to me at all. Instead of the 60-250/4 I went with a 70-200/2.8 which is a bit larger but much faster and doesn't pose the challenges that are of concern. However, that category of lens, like the 60-250, is outside your stated price range.

**csa** · 01-07-2019, 09:25 AM

Sadly yes; the 70-200 F2.8 is way out of my price range. That range of 70 to 200 would be ideal for me.

SSGGeezer · 01-07-2019, 11:16 AM

The 50-135 is a brilliant lens and after borrowing a DA*60-250 I can say the same, and the SDM wouldn't worry me enough to stop me from buying one if it fit into my budget, it is that good! The 50-135 as a used lens would leave you room for another 55-300 also! Just try to get the newest version if you won't get a PLM due to fear of firmware since the coatings seem to have improved over the years.

01-07-2019, 03:25 AM	#38
Papa_Joe Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2018 Location: SW Bavaria Posts: 562	I just had a look at a test of the Tamron AF 70-300 and have to add it to the list of good budget zooms. Dirt cheap and higher resolution as the 55-300 but lacks in contrast from 200 mm onwards if not stopped down. Last edited by Papa_Joe; 01-07-2019 at 03:26 AM. Reason: mistyping

01-07-2019, 08:49 AM	#42
csa Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Montana mountains Posts: 10,133 Original Poster	Originally posted by pepperberry farm are you happy with your Sigma 300? I've been very happy with it. I have no way to compare it to a Pentax, and unless I'd sell it, I couldn't get a Pentax. I wouldn't be happy if I didn't see any improvement in images in a Pentax, after selling the Sigma. I have wondered if I would be happier with a F* or FA* 300; but........... "start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty" The only way I'll buy a SDM is if it can be converted. Even with a warranty, I probably would be without the lense for months if the SDM failed. Last edited by csa; 01-07-2019 at 09:03 AM.

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01-06-2019, 06:56 PM	#31
csa Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Montana mountains Posts: 10,133 Original Poster	Originally posted by ChristianRock If budget is no problem... I think the DA 20-40 Limited and the DA60-250 would cover the gap rather nicely I'd love the DA60-250; but the SDM not being able to be converted holds me back.

01-06-2019, 06:57 PM	#32
csa Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Montana mountains Posts: 10,133 Original Poster	Originally posted by mikesbike DA* 50-135mm Been reading the reviews on this one as well!

01-06-2019, 07:15 PM - 1 Like	#33
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 28,398	Originally posted by csa I'd love the DA*60-250; but the SDM not being able to be converted holds me back. I've converted over 100 lenses. I've only been asked twice about the 60-250 that I recall. It appears far more robust than most SDM lenses. But I understand your reluctance.

01-06-2019, 07:15 PM - 1 Like	#34
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	Originally posted by csa Docrwm Excellent information on the FA 28-105! I really appreciate this; as this really helps if I decide to go for a 28-105. Thanks! No problem. They're cheap enough these days that, frankly, catch-and-release if you don't like one would only really end up costing you time.

01-06-2019, 09:43 PM	#35
csa Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Montana mountains Posts: 10,133 Original Poster	I like catch-and-release!

01-07-2019, 02:04 AM	#36
Papa_Joe Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2018 Location: SW Bavaria Posts: 562	Just my 2cents concerning the DA 18 - 138. I bought it as a walk around lens and I am quite content with it but I would never recommend it for landscape or wildlife. The lens is outstandig to good in center sharpness over the whole range of its focal length. But the edges and borders loose sharpness from 50 mm (still good) to 135 mm where the fall off in sharpness at the border is visible which I would not like in an lens for landscape or wildlife. Thus, as has been said, you have to replace the 18-55, 28-105 and 70-300 with two lenses. The recommendations already given, are covering your possibilities. I would only bring to mind the DA 17-70 / f 4.0 which has an very good IQ over it's complete focal range without any flaws and recommends itself as a landscape zoom. The 16 - 85 is still a bit better of course.

01-07-2019, 03:14 AM	#37
Wasp Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2017 Location: Pretoria Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,660	Have you considered the Sigma 120-400mm f/4-5.6? It will go well with an 18-135mm. The downside is that is big and heavy but the extra reach would be useful for wildlife. Sigma 120-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG APO OS HSM Lens Reviews - Sigma Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database

01-07-2019, 03:52 AM	#39
aslyfox Seeker of Knowledge Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Topeka, Kansas Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 24,581	I bought an old Tamron AF 70-300mm F/4-5.6 LD Tele-Macro [1:2] (Model 772D) in 2015 Read more at: Tamron AF 70-300mm F/4-5.6 LD Tele-Macro [1:2] (Model 772D) Lens Reviews - Tamron Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database it did quite well so I would guess that newer models are good

01-07-2019, 05:18 AM - 1 Like	#40
Gary H Perth Pentaxian Join Date: Sep 2017 Location: Floreat Posts: 623	Originally posted by csa The lenses I have that are keepers are: Tamron 10-24 Sigma Macro 105 Sigma 300 Tamron 500 Mirror I have the Pentax 18-55, a couple of ProMasters that I'd want to replace. I want to cover the lower end from the Tamron, and up to the Sigma 300. I don't know whether to go with a zoom(s), or primary lenses. I can't spend more than about $500 for first addition(s) right now. I know that's not a good budget, but I will have to proceed slowly to build my lineup. If primaries, which ones? I will say I prefer zooms, but of course have never looked thru a limited primary. I'm definitely planning on the 21 ltd. Also been looking at the DA*18-135. My main photography is wildlife, landscape. So you are keeping a good wide-angle (the Tamron) a tele-macro and a long tele. I have both the 18-135 and the 16-85 and both are good all-day lenses, the 16-85 is better image quality but significantly heavier. I am currently now trying out the Sigma 18-250 Macro HSM, which seems quite sharp but I have not yet got the in-camera tweaks right. This weighs about the same as the 16-85mm. It won't be a software issue for you, as it was released about 5 years ago, and it is not as sharp as the 16-85, but with good handling it may compare with the Pentax 18-135, and give much longer reach for wildlife shooting. I gave up on the lens a few years ago when I had a basic old DSLR which lost quality at high ISO, now I have a K70 with good IQ up to about 6400ISO. If I get to do some more tests in next few days I will let you know how it goes, it would be another catch-and-release exercise to see if it suits. Of course there is also a Pentax of similar focal length range, but much more expensive. Btw, I have a 21mm Limited on order for the times when IQ matters most at the wide end.

01-07-2019, 05:40 AM - 1 Like	#41
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,656	looks like its time to move up to either pro zooms or good primes for the focal lengths you are wanting to cover... at the long end - are you happy with your Sigma 300? If not, start looking for a good used F* or FA* 300mm... at the short end - DA 35 Limited, DA 70 Limited would be a start for primes.. but if you're sold on buying zooms, start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty...

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01-07-2019, 09:14 AM - 1 Like	#43
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	Originally posted by csa I've been very happy with it. I have no way to compare it to a Pentax, and unless I'd sell it, I couldn't get a Pentax. I wouldn't be happy if I didn't see any improvement in images in a Pentax, after selling the Sigma. I have wondered if I would be happier with a F* or FA* 300; but........... "start looking for a used 60-250 SDM from one of the used shops that offers a warranty" The only way I'll buy a SDM is if it can be converted. Even with a warranty, I probably would be without the lense for months if the SDM failed. I have to say I stayed away from the SDM lenses for the same reasons. IQ is great but a paperweight on the end of your camera, or waiting for it to be fixed or modified, doesn't appeal to me at all. Instead of the 60-250/4 I went with a 70-200/2.8 which is a bit larger but much faster and doesn't pose the challenges that are of concern. However, that category of lens, like the 60-250, is outside your stated price range.

01-07-2019, 09:25 AM	#44
csa Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Montana mountains Posts: 10,133 Original Poster	Sadly yes; the 70-200 F2.8 is way out of my price range. That range of 70 to 200 would be ideal for me.

01-07-2019, 11:16 AM	#45
SSGGeezer Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2017 Location: Indiana, U.S. Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 4,845	The 50-135 is a brilliant lens and after borrowing a DA*60-250 I can say the same, and the SDM wouldn't worry me enough to stop me from buying one if it fit into my budget, it is that good! The 50-135 as a used lens would leave you room for another 55-300 also! Just try to get the newest version if you won't get a PLM due to fear of firmware since the coatings seem to have improved over the years.