I have had my K-3 out in harsh conditions for years and the Nordic winter is my favourite time. One of the toughest hikes was when we were out for a full week with temperatures changing from +2 to -20 deg C and with precipitation varying from rain to snow practically every day. The Pentax K-3 was for the whole week mounted on my backpack shoulder strap (using Peak designs clip Capture) and was exposed to the elements for 10-12 hrs per day. I used no camera protection whatsoever, since I needed to be ready to shoot at any time. I also used Pentax weather sealed lenses.
The only problem I encountered was going from rain to sub zero temperatures there would eventually build up a layer of ice over the camera. Usually no big thing, just to put the index finger over the viewfinder to melt the ice a bit and I was ready to go. In some occasions the ice would be so thick it was hard to operate the camera buttons. Also in deep snow or in heavy rain it could be dfficult to keep he front lens clear, but with the clip on the backpack strap the camera mounts with the lens pointing downwards and it is surprising how well the lens is protected.
The K-3 was my faithful companion for many years, but last summer the viewfinder cracked when the camera slipped off a kayak onto a small stone on the shore. In the process to buy a new camera I really wanted to go to mirrorless (smaller an lighter) but I realised I would never be able to leave the outstanding Pentax weather sealing and I am now a happy K-1 photographer.
"No Pentax gear was damaged during this shoot"
More photos by the K-3 on adventure on my site:
Nature - Contextphoto
And, yes my beloved K-3 will get a repair