FS: SMC Pentax-A 400mm F5.6
... before I bought this lens I had assumed it was basically an 'A' version of the previous 'M' model, but it is was actually a new optical formula in a similar size and weight chassis but with a significantly shorter minimum focus distance (2.8 metres V 5 metres) - this makes a big difference for birding and the like.
This lens is compatible with the highly rated A series teleconverters A 2x-L and A 1.4-L which were designed to perform particularly well with longer focal length lenses (hence the 'L' designation) although it also works well with the 'S' versions.
It's not a lightweight lens at 1240g but it's suprisingly well balanced - the tripod collar on the lens is useful and substantial, personally I find it very usable handheld (although when pixel peeping I think sometimes a tripos would have been better (tiny amounts of shake do transfer)).
I've seen a few discussions in which the Sigma has been compared to it, and the result has generally been that the Pentax is a superior lens (and far more usable at maximum aperture). It does suffer from purple fringeing, but this is easily fixable in PP.
Hopoe that helps/enlightens

LennyBloke

LennyBloke
Best regards, John

LennyBloke
They are quite difficult to find, and although the M series comes up fairly regularly this A series version shares the same dimensions and filter size but is a later optical construction and significantly better (IMO

It didn't sell at £399 so how about £350 ?
LennyBloke
Regards,
Dan
https://www.flickr.com/photos/honourabletyr/
Peter
My Flickr page
I'd be all over it if i hadn't bought the 150-450. The weight difference compared to the modern one is also huge! I even did some birding with the manual focus Sigma 400/5.6 for a while (the 72mm verison, not the apo-telemacro). For distant subject, and from a hide where birds aren't flighty, it was great. CIF is very helpful, you can either aim the lens and set the camera up to focus trap (i've seen awesome hummingbird images taken like this) or even try it with BIFs - i got quite good at it! The Sigma is had, which is definitely not up to the Pentax quality, was very sharp (sharper than a Canon 100-400L at the time), but it PF'ed a lot and contrast was rather terrible...

I've toggled between selling and keeping this lens for a long time - but as I have now purchased the FA*400/5.6 this beautiful A series 400mm f5.6 has become redundant

I realise I haven't provided photos of the lens as yet (so I'll make that my mission for the weekend) - but this one is in superb condition, don't think you'll find a better one around

LennyBloke

LennyBloke
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LennyBloke
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Worcestershire
Full Frame compatible, light for a 400mm, superb IQ , nice smooth focus action. Difficult to find one in such good condition.
Here's the reviews over on the US forum:
https://www.pentaxforums.com/lensreviews/SMC-Pentax-A-400mm-F5.6-Lens.html
Here's a mini album of images (not many - sorry):
https://www.flickr.com/photos/62460860@N05/albums/72157673510538945/with/3080257...
Any questions just ask - I'll take some photos of the lens shortly and add them to the post.
£399 inc P&P (RMSD)
UK Only, Bank Transfer, Cheque (cleared), Postal Order or Cash on collection, Inspection Welcome
LennyBloke