Originally posted by carrrlangas Yes, saw it on amazon. But, in my view, the 18-55 is a U$50 lens (doesnt mean its not good) and the 55-300 goes for U$180 (DA L version, used prices) that leaves the K-r for U$270. Thats high in my opinion.
Imo, the best advantage of newer pentax bodies is the improved AF system. From the K-30 (I think its the same camera as K-50 with different looks, check review on this site) onwards it got really good and that is really nice to have, relative to the price you are paying.Doesnt mean asn older body wont do the job, just tools after all. But Id try to get a better price in an older body which probably means buying used.
Hasve you checked the DA35/2.4 ? Theres a deal at amazon for 140U$. That would be a really good start
I really gotta agree with carrlangas on the k-30 with the superior AF. I'm not knocking the K-r I think its also a great camera with 12mp and slightly better dynamic range. But when the K-30 first came out, folks down my local camera store were really impressed with the speed of the AF, claiming its faster than some expensive brand that shall remain nameless. I tried it and yes, the AF is much faster than my K-5.
Look, when it comes to camera gear, its best not to stick to a budget. I know that sounds nuts, but if its $50 or $100 or $200 more for a significantly better Pentax, then just work an extra week or two and make up the difference.
The 16-45 f/4 is also a very sharp lens for you to consider in stead of the 18-55.
If it were me, I'd just get a K-30 or K-50 with WR lenses, and then get non-WR lenses afterwards like primes. The WR lenses become your backup when the weather is bad.