First Post.. Pentax Info Reqested

Whereas I'd agree (see earlier comments) that the Bigma is better for airshow photography, I would reiterate that the 55-300 isn't at all bad, and not having a Bigma shouldn't put anyone off.

Have you used the Shoulder Pod with the Bigma for fast jets at all? My arm was aching a lot by the end of Farnborough this year, so if the SP is any good for fast moving things, I'd definitely consider it.

I'm not sure if this helps, but I'm finding I'm getting far better results with the K-5 and my DAL 55-300 than I did with the K-7, owing to much faster AF speed and exceptional ISO performance.

I'd happily reach for them both if I was doing motorsport or aviation shots.

I'll also add I used to have a Bigma. I found in the end that the far lighter weight and maneuverability of the DAL 55-300, for me, more than compensated for the reduction in focal length. Was difficult to get sharp shots at 500m of moving objects. I could usually crop a shot taken with the 55-300 and get pretty much the same result.

Of course if you are very handy with a tripod or monopod and can react extremely quickly, then its not quite the same argument anymore - but for me, I found the Bigma too unwieldy at the best of times.

You won't find a better deal than this!link
I'd buy it myself if I hadn't just bought one (and paid more for it!)

You may want to wait and see what it's replacement will be as the K5 is officially discontinued. Once B&H list is as so, it is. That said, prices of remaining stock should drop as dealers clear shelves for the K5 replacement.

Best regards