Originally posted by Flinn I'm actually curious why you decided to switch to Pentax to begin with rather than simply upgrading your Nikon to a more advanced model.
I've also questioned myself if I should switch to Pentax rather than simply upgrading the Nikon system. I am actually very, very satisfied with the results given by the d3100+35mm combination. But I will answer you with a couple of considerations that I've made:
1) Build quality (the only big minus that I give to my d3100. It's plasticky. Plastic all over). The reviews that I've read/seen, all of them point to another plasticky body, when reviewing the d7000.
2) Image quality (I am blown away by the 50 quid M 50mm f/1.7). This is, definitely, my best £ spent since I started into the Photographic world. In mint condition, for £50 delivered.
3) Built-in stabilization (this if definitely a worthy feature)
4) Weather-sealed (For me, it's just a plus, good to have). I am in photography just for fun.
However, the second-hand market for Pentax is much smaller than Canon/Nikon's. I have bought my Nikon from MPB, and they, unfortunately, do not sell Pentax gear. We have, as far as I know, two options: Pentax forums and... Ebay.
I am going for the upgrade/switch in the next couple of weeks, depending on the market, here and on Ebay.