[meyjo]

Someone told me recently that the ProMaster lenses are actually repackaged Sigma and Tamron lenses, in fact from the lower end of their product lines. Is this true? I own two Pentax cameras, a Pentax ZX7 SLR film camera, and a Pentax K100D Digital camera. The SLR film camera came with a ProMaster AF 28~105 F/4-5.6 [IF] as it's kit lense. The Pentax K100D came with a Pentax 18-55 as it's kit lense. I am using the ProMaster 28-105 on the digital right now and have left it on as the range is better when I am just 'around'. Any comments would be most welcome.

[HogRider]

I think Promaster lenses are all made by Cosina (Japan).

The 100mm Macro (f3.5 with 1:1 adapter) for example is made by Cosina. The lens is also re badged as Vivitar, Cosina and I think we all know that the f3.5 100mm Pentax is probably the same lens.

[HogRider]

Forgot to mention: These lenses are also marketed as "Phoenix" brand lenses.

Someone told me recently that the ProMaster lenses are actually repackaged Sigma and Tamron lenses, in fact from the lower end of their product lines. Is this true? I own two Pentax cameras, a Pentax ZX7 SLR film camera, and a Pentax K100D Digital camera. The SLR film camera came with a ProMaster AF 28~105 F/4-5.6 [IF] as it's kit lense. The Pentax K100D came with a Pentax 18-55 as it's kit lense. I am using the ProMaster 28-105 on the digital right now and have left it on as the range is better when I am just 'around'. Any comments would be most welcome.

I don't think that Promaster has any lenses that are based on the Sigma. If you go to both the Tamron and Tokina web sites and compare their offerings to those of Promaster, you'll find that that they are pretty much the same lenses.

I think that Cosina may make a few of their lenses but they are primarily Tamron/Tokina Re-bags.

But........ That's just my opinion.