I've finished reading through many threads and posts here in PF concerning 'weather resistance' in various environmental conditions. If I may summarize, these are the main themes:
- The Ricoh-Pentax promotional statements and descriptions are generally consistent, but not specific. The exception is the reference by Ricoh Imaging Germany to the International (Ingress) Protection rating of IPX2. Weather resistance, weather proofing, fully weather sealed, and "[shutting] out water drops" are all used to describe this feature. The Product Guide mentioned in the OP seems to be slightly more assertive of the weather performance than the Ricoh Imaging web sites in Canada or the USA. Interestingly, my K-5 ii Operating Manual warns the user to "avoid contact with garbage, mud, sand, dust, water..." (Now I'm really confused). It also suggests to "wipe the camera to dry off any rain or water drops."
- There are many anecdotal user reports of cameras enduring severe weather, but also numerous reports of failures. I can't draw any conclusions because the reports are generally not specific enough to understand the conditions.
- The warranty question. Members point out that Ricoh's warranty is clear - no warranty of failure caused by water or several other factors. Personally, I think this limitation is reasonable - it would be difficult or impossible for a user or the company to determine or prove the failure mode or the specific conditions that caused water ingress.
- Perceptions and impressions. There is a definite perception within the photography community (Pentax and others) that Pentax cameras are rugged and 'weatherproof'. Whether this impression is conditioned by Pentax advertising or promotion, or anecdotes, is hard to say. I think maybe a bit of both. Personally, I experienced this a couple of days ago at work: I asked one of my associates about his Canon 'lens mug,' obvious that he's a photographer. He asked what gear I use. "Ahh, Pentax," he said, "very rugged for outdoors..." That was his only sentiment about Pentax.
- Risk. There are numerous suggestions to not risk camera failure - cover and protect your gear, and consider the seals as a second line of defence.
- Deterioration of the seals. Although Ricoh-Pentax does not appear to warn owners of possible seal degradation, several members suggest regular inspections and cleaning the accessible seals. I have not found any technical account of actual or possible deterioration mechanisms. It makes general sense, however, to think that seals may degrade under certain conditions.
- After all of this, I'm at a loss to suggest 'rules of thumb' or guidelines for ensuring reliable use in harsh environments - other than don't wash your camera in the shower more than 50 times and don't take it swimming (just kidding).
- Craig
Last edited by c.a.m; 05-15-2014 at 06:07 PM.
Reason: What else - typo.