Win a Pentax Limited Lens: Raffle Now Live!

**Ron Boggs** · 02-09-2009, 10:07 AM

In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F*600.

This is not a slam on the FA* lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA*, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA* as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish...

Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night!

cupic · 02-09-2009, 07:50 PM

Now that is a piece of Art free bump as if I bought it I would move in with you the missus would boot me out because of LBA

cheers

**Marc Langille** · 02-09-2009, 09:44 PM

Originally posted by Ron Boggs

In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F*600.

This is not a slam on the FA* lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA*, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA* as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish...

Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night!

BTW, the F* version does not have power zoom:
F* 250-600/5.6 ED [IF]

Would that be a deal breaker for you Ron - no power zoom??

Cheers,
Marc

**Ron Boggs** · 02-10-2009, 09:09 AM

I really like power zoom, but it's not a deal breaker for me. As you mentioned in our phone conversation, no power zoom motor and circuitry means a pound lighter lens...

kenyee · 02-10-2009, 09:52 AM

I thought F meant AF? What's a power zoom motor?

I need to apply for some bailout money... :-)

**Marc Langille** · 02-10-2009, 10:26 AM

Originally posted by kenyee

I thought F meant AF? What's a power zoom motor?

I need to apply for some bailout money... :-)

F* and FA* are both AF lenses.

The primary difference (other than cosmetic - white vs. silver, and some subtle shape differences) is the lack of a power zoom motor on the F* lens. The F* is an AF lens, but you zoom the lens' focal length manually, like most lenses in existence.

You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version. It's the same for the several other lenses Pentax made with the power zoom function.

Regards,
Marc

kenyee · 02-10-2009, 11:30 AM

Originally posted by Marc Langille

You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version.

And the reason you'd need it is is because it's hard to turn without it? (like power steering?)
I don't get why you'd want/need a power assisted zoom...sounds like yet another thing to break

**Marc Langille** · 02-10-2009, 11:48 AM

Originally posted by kenyee

And the reason you'd need it is is because it's hard to turn without it? (like power steering?)
I don't get why you'd want/need a power assisted zoom...sounds like yet another thing to break

Nope - you can do it via the motor or manually (using the zoom ring). Your choice - manual or auto zooming...

It can be useful at times: using a power zoom keep any lens movements minimized. Very useful in minimizing potential lens (motion) blur with longer focal lengths and keeping your attention on the subject and/or any action that might be going on. It would be a shame to miss it due to lens movement, etc.

Does that help?

Regards,
Marc

kenyee · 02-10-2009, 01:19 PM

Originally posted by Marc Langille

It can be useful at times: using a power zoom keep any lens movements minimized.

Thanks. That does help, though I'd think you'd put more torque on the lens positioning by pushing a button on the lens.

**Marc Langille** · 02-10-2009, 02:00 PM

Originally posted by kenyee

Thanks. That does help, though I'd think you'd put more torque on the lens positioning by pushing a button on the lens.

Glad to help. BTW, it's a ring on the barrel (no button).

For reference: on the FA* 250-600/5.6, the power zoom ring is the wide black ring (with the elliptical indents) closest to the lens mount:
Pentax Lens Review Database - 250-600mm F5.6 ED [IF]

asa3dpro · 02-10-2009, 02:11 PM

Anybody down for $6100 shipped? I'm taking a beating on this thing but want to get a newer canon or sony HD 3CCD camera.

**David Whiteley** · 02-10-2009, 02:18 PM

Originally posted by David Whiteley

Nah, I think I'll hold out for the FA version, to match my other FA*

Originally posted by Ron Boggs

In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F*600.

This is not a slam on the FA* lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA*, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA* as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish...

Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night!

Not sure if Ron was taking my facetious point point seriously, but from where I sit I simply find it immensely amusing to contemplate that someone would have this one-in-a-lifetime opportunity in front of them, and pass for purely cosmetic reasons.

Then again, no power zoom, I dunno....

kenyee · 02-10-2009, 04:05 PM

Originally posted by asa3dpro

Anybody down for $6100 shipped?

You should probably put it up on fleabay.

If you sell it for $3K, I'd be up for it though

**rparmar** · 02-10-2009, 04:50 PM

Imagine this with a 1.4x TC. If I'm not incorrect that would get you up to 840mm at f/8. Geez.

I hope you find a buyer for this, though the market must be pretty small. Patience and all the best!

Sirfishalot · 02-10-2009, 07:00 PM

Originally posted by Marc Langille

F* and FA* are both AF lenses.

The primary difference (other than cosmetic - white vs. silver, and some subtle shape differences) is the lack of a power zoom motor on the F* lens. The F* is an AF lens, but you zoom the lens' focal length manually, like most lenses in existence.

You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version. It's the same for the several other lenses Pentax made with the power zoom function.

Regards,
Marc

The FA* is just so much more elegant though! It doesn't have that Canonesque finish.

JayT

02-10-2009, 11:48 AM	#23
Marc Langille Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: NW Arkansas, USA Posts: 4,710 Feedback Score: 37 (100%)	Originally posted by kenyee And the reason you'd need it is is because it's hard to turn without it? (like power steering?) I don't get why you'd want/need a power assisted zoom...sounds like yet another thing to break Nope - you can do it via the motor or manually (using the zoom ring). Your choice - manual or auto zooming... It can be useful at times: using a power zoom keep any lens movements minimized. Very useful in minimizing potential lens (motion) blur with longer focal lengths and keeping your attention on the subject and/or any action that might be going on. It would be a shame to miss it due to lens movement, etc. Does that help? Regards, Marc Last edited by Marc Langille; 02-10-2009 at 11:59 AM.

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02-09-2009, 10:07 AM	#16
Ron Boggs Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: MT Posts: 1,350 Feedback Score: 28 (100%)	In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F600. This is not a slam on the FA lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish... Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night!

02-09-2009, 07:50 PM	#17
cupic Veteran Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Australia-NSW Posts: 4,824 Feedback Score: 25 (100%)	Now that is a piece of Art free bump as if I bought it I would move in with you the missus would boot me out because of LBA cheers

02-09-2009, 09:44 PM	#18
Marc Langille Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: NW Arkansas, USA Posts: 4,710 Feedback Score: 37 (100%)	Originally posted by Ron Boggs In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F600. This is not a slam on the FA lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish... Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night! BTW, the F* version does not have power zoom: F* 250-600/5.6 ED [IF] Would that be a deal breaker for you Ron - no power zoom?? Cheers, Marc

02-10-2009, 09:09 AM	#19
Ron Boggs Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: MT Posts: 1,350 Feedback Score: 28 (100%)	I really like power zoom, but it's not a deal breaker for me. As you mentioned in our phone conversation, no power zoom motor and circuitry means a pound lighter lens...

02-10-2009, 09:52 AM	#20
kenyee Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Boston, PRofMA Posts: 3,026 Feedback Score: 4 (100%)	I thought F meant AF? What's a power zoom motor? I need to apply for some bailout money... :-)

02-10-2009, 10:26 AM	#21
Marc Langille Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: NW Arkansas, USA Posts: 4,710 Feedback Score: 37 (100%)	Originally posted by kenyee I thought F meant AF? What's a power zoom motor? I need to apply for some bailout money... :-) F* and FA* are both AF lenses. The primary difference (other than cosmetic - white vs. silver, and some subtle shape differences) is the lack of a power zoom motor on the F* lens. The F* is an AF lens, but you zoom the lens' focal length manually, like most lenses in existence. You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version. It's the same for the several other lenses Pentax made with the power zoom function. Regards, Marc

02-10-2009, 11:30 AM	#22
kenyee Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Boston, PRofMA Posts: 3,026 Feedback Score: 4 (100%)	Originally posted by Marc Langille You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version. And the reason you'd need it is is because it's hard to turn without it? (like power steering?) I don't get why you'd want/need a power assisted zoom...sounds like yet another thing to break

02-10-2009, 01:19 PM	#24
kenyee Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Boston, PRofMA Posts: 3,026 Feedback Score: 4 (100%)	Originally posted by Marc Langille It can be useful at times: using a power zoom keep any lens movements minimized. Thanks. That does help, though I'd think you'd put more torque on the lens positioning by pushing a button on the lens.

02-10-2009, 02:00 PM	#25
Marc Langille Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: NW Arkansas, USA Posts: 4,710 Feedback Score: 37 (100%)	Originally posted by kenyee Thanks. That does help, though I'd think you'd put more torque on the lens positioning by pushing a button on the lens. Glad to help. BTW, it's a ring on the barrel (no button). For reference: on the FA* 250-600/5.6, the power zoom ring is the wide black ring (with the elliptical indents) closest to the lens mount: Pentax Lens Review Database - 250-600mm F5.6 ED [IF]

02-10-2009, 02:11 PM	#26
asa3dpro New Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 10 Feedback Score: 0 (0%) Original Poster	Anybody down for $6100 shipped? I'm taking a beating on this thing but want to get a newer canon or sony HD 3CCD camera.

02-10-2009, 02:18 PM	#27
David Whiteley Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada Posts: 372 Feedback Score: 15 (100%)	Originally posted by David Whiteley Nah, I think I'll hold out for the FA version, to match my other FA* Originally posted by Ron Boggs In life we seldom have choices regarding rare opportunities. Anyone seriously considering this lens needs to know that the cream colored finish on the F* version is considerably more robust than the FA* silver--I know as I own the FA* version and formerly owned an F600. This is not a slam on the FA lenses as I'm a fanboy of FA, I just don't want anyone to pass on this lens in favor of the FA as the F* is the same lens with less rounded shape and much stronger finish. If I had it to do over again, I'd prefer the F* for the more rugged finish... Someone hurry and buy this lens so Marc Langille can sleep at night! Not sure if Ron was taking my facetious point point seriously, but from where I sit I simply find it immensely amusing to contemplate that someone would have this one-in-a-lifetime opportunity in front of them, and pass for purely cosmetic reasons. Then again, no power zoom, I dunno....

02-10-2009, 04:05 PM	#28
kenyee Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Boston, PRofMA Posts: 3,026 Feedback Score: 4 (100%)	Originally posted by asa3dpro Anybody down for $6100 shipped? You should probably put it up on fleabay. If you sell it for $3K, I'd be up for it though

02-10-2009, 04:50 PM	#29
rparmar Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 8,823 Feedback Score: 12 (100%)	Imagine this with a 1.4x TC. If I'm not incorrect that would get you up to 840mm at f/8. Geez. I hope you find a buyer for this, though the market must be pretty small. Patience and all the best!

02-10-2009, 07:00 PM	#30
Sirfishalot Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Seattle, Washington Posts: 200 Feedback Score: 23 (96%)	Originally posted by Marc Langille F* and FA* are both AF lenses. The primary difference (other than cosmetic - white vs. silver, and some subtle shape differences) is the lack of a power zoom motor on the F* lens. The F* is an AF lens, but you zoom the lens' focal length manually, like most lenses in existence. You can adjust the focal length using an electric motor via a rubberized ring (zoom ring) on the lens barrel in the FA* version. It's the same for the several other lenses Pentax made with the power zoom function. Regards, Marc The FA* is just so much more elegant though! It doesn't have that Canonesque finish. JayT

For Sale - Sold: Pentax SMC Fzoom 250-600mm F5.6ED

Win a Pentax Limited Lens: Raffle Now Live!