[sft]

Just wondering if anyone uses a 58mm filter on the kit lenses with a 52mm to 58mm step up ring? Does it vignette and does it fit with the lens hoods no problem?

Im thinking of getting a 58mm Circular Polarizer for my FA31 and it would be nice if I can use it with the two kit zooms with their hoods on and without vignetting. Also thinking of getting a 49mm to 58mm step up ring to use it on the DA21 too but I don't think I can use the DA21 hood this way. Not a huge problem though so long as they don't vingennete.

Any input?

[hinckc]

I just did this, i.e. purchased 2 ND and a CIR-PL filter @58mm and stepup from 52 -> 58. On the DA18-55, it passes my qualifications for vignetteing, but I can't use the hood with the stepup and larger filter on.

I don't have the equipment here, otherwise I'd tell you which ones I got. If you need the info, I could tell you over the weekend.

[sft]

I see thanks for the info. No vignetting is definetely good, as for hood - is it close or does it not fit say only the step-up ring attached with no filter in it? Can you check that for me when you have the chance.

I'm also wondering If I will need a hood in the first place - the Pentax lenses are pretty resistant to flare and with the high-end circular polarizer I plan to put on it should reflect a lot of the glare so the hood may only provide a marginal benefit here - though Im not sure.

This complicates a little as I don't want to get 3 different size filters for each type 49mm, 52mm and 58mm. I'm also ordering a 77mm one for the upcoming 16-50 while I am at it.

What you guys think? Just get a 58mm and get the appropiate step-up rings for the 49 and 52mm ones or another option? Are hoods essential when using a polarizer does my line of thinking make sense?