Originally posted by mikebb WOW, thanks for all the help thus far. I knew I would get some feedback here. At first I didn't want the K70 since it could not fit a battery grip. But now that I considered the point and shoot so much, I realized to carry it the most I should go as light and compact as possible.
Don't let the battery grip thing get in the way - I understand the grip aspect, but I find the K70 feels very nice in the hand, and I've never had a grip issue with it e.g going to drop it or fumble it, whereupon a battery grip is an expensive way to have more battery. Just throw a couple spares in the bag or a pocket and off you go. Also, the 16-85 has been mentioned, and that's what I've got on "our" K70, and it's a fantastic combo. Really like that lens. Very sharp, and a great range. Don't think you would go wrong with that combo. The lens is also on sale at B&H right now for a pretty good price of $539 - that's $107 off:
Pentax HD PENTAX DA 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 ED DC WR Lens 21387 B&H, and they've got the black body K70 for $599, not that I mean to push you or anything while I have fun spending your money, but I think you'd be very happy with that combo from what you've posted.