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If the DA560mm lens isn't quite cutting it for you, there's an FA* 250-600mm lens on ebay with original case for ~$3,000 current bid, ending in 4 days.

Very Rare!! PENTAX SMC FA* 250-600mm f/5.6 IF ED | eBay

[mstahulak]

Oh, that tape near the filter? I'm thinking it's a good idea for you to do the same to prevent the filter holder from dropping out unexpectedly. That seems to be relatively common.

I've read that everywhere I've looked, and I can see how you might jiggle it loose, but I don't think it would be easier to do than, say, losing the little filter access door on the 150-450mm lens hood (which I have done, and which is now protected by a lens coat).

As far as the wobble goes, I think that part of the lens may be the same as the FA* 300 2.8 and FA* 600 4.0.

Mike

[zzaletel]

Congrats Mike - I hope that it turns out well. You'll have to post a few test pictures in the thread from the bird refuge!

I'll keep on the hunt for a like new, $1,000 unit for you, gatorguy.

[gatorguy]

Congrats Mike - I hope that it turns out well. You'll have to post a few test pictures in the thread from the bird refuge!

I'll keep on the hunt for a like new, $1,000 unit for you, gatorguy.

Oh, you have me pegged too cheap. For the right one I might go to $1500.

[mstahulak]

If anyone is interested, here is a link to another thread on this wobble issue:

Pentax-FA* 600mm F4 repair ... HELP - PentaxForums.com

Common-ish problem apparently with a somewhat difficult solution…

[builttospill]

Sorry, it was me

No apology necessary, Mike. Congratulations on getting a great lens. I've used both the FA* and F* 250-600 (mine is for sale in the Marketplace now) and they are both incredible.

Spencer at Spencer's Camera can fix your lens wobble. I've had him service my similar DA* 560 wobble. Also, Eagle Day is coming up at Farmington Bay and your new lens will be perfect for this.

[mstahulak]

No apology necessary, Mike. Congratulations on getting a great lens. I've used both the FA* and F* 250-600 (mine is for sale in the Marketplace now) and they are both incredible.

Spencer at Spencer's Camera can fix your lens wobble. I've had him service my similar DA* 560 wobble. Also, Eagle Day is coming up at Farmington Bay and your new lens will be perfect for this.

Thanks, I'll give them a call. Always good to have a referral!

Mike

[Weevil]

Sorry, it was me; ...
Mike

Congrats for the new lens. If you ever have questions, I possess one like this, thousands of photos with it since 2013, so if you have any question, do not hesitate to ask me privately. I would also strongly recommend that you add a back lens support like I did. It prevent a lot of vibrations when using the lens on a tripod.

[mstahulak]

Congrats for the new lens. If you ever have questions, I possess one like this, thousands of photos with it since 2013, so if you have any question, do not hesitate to ask me privately. I would also strongly recommend that you add a back lens support like I did. It prevent a lot of vibrations when using the lens on a tripod.

I’m having the lens cleaned up, and getting the barrels “tightened” before getting into it. Hoping to work on the rough-legged hawks and hummingbirds this year. Should be especially good for hummingbirds with the short focus distance. I’m interested in the back lens support. In retrospect, I’ve really only had good luck with these lenses when mounted on a tripod. Otherwise, I’m just not consistently happy with my results.

Mike