I have an *ist and it is a mid-range model.
It does have the so-called 'crippled-K mount' but it will work fine with all lenses that have an A setting or the FA-J lenses.
From what I know of it, the design of this model was used as the basis for the Digital *ist bodies. The layout of the camera camera controls are exactly the same excepting the back (no digital preview of course) and the AF and metering systems are the same.
I've used the *ist a number of times and it was my main Pentax AF body before I moved to the MZ-S and Z-1. I can definitely back up the comments by DAP and say that these two models are pretty much the best that Pentax has to offer for AF bodies.
With decent lenses the *ist will not disappoint you. I've used mine a few times with the Sigma 50-500 'Bigma' and have always had cracking shots. To me, the metering has always been spot on as has the AF.
If you get one, please replace the crummy FA-J lens that is supplied with it as it's junk. It lets the camera down.
BTW, this model is tiny. I've found it to be too small even for my small hands. I use it with the BG-20? grip and its a bit better. However, if you want a small camera add in a DA-40 and your set for a fantastic pocket P&S with all the facilities that an SLR can offer you.
Last edited by Trawlerman; 07-03-2008 at 05:34 AM.
Reason: Additonal