I was thinking (K10D)

I am looking to get a couple of K10Ds and the DA* 16-50 and 50-135 within the next few months (hopefully before September, depends how long Pentax takes to release the lenses).

Regarding the battery grip, it is my understanding that the battery grip comes with no battery, would this be correct?

I was considering buying the K10D with the 18-55 or 16-45 and 50-200 sooner and getting the DA* lenses later, but then those lenses may never be used again. I already have an old SMC-A 24-50, 50 and a horrible 75-300 (Super A got damaged and needs repairing), although manual focus without a split screen is difficult and probably inaccurate. The K10D body's autofocus sensor still works with manual lenses giving an indication so it may be usable in the short term.

So, should I get the body now and use my old lenses and save my money for the DA* and a wide angle. The other option is to get the K10D and both 'kit' lenses now and then possibly never use them again... (I know perfectly well I'll favour the sealed DA*s because I mostly shoot outdoors)

Difficult decisions to be made, am leaning towards saving for the DA*s.

Hi Tyr

I bought my K10D as a body only and I am currently using the 18-55 and 50-200 from my istDS. Quite happy with the 18-55 and the 50-200 gives excellent results for its price.

I can't resist buying the 16-50 when it is available, so that will become the standard lens soon

There is no battery in the grip, I bought a spare pentax battery with the grip, but have also bought a couple of 'clone' batteries from 7dayshop.com at a much reduced price. Performance of the batteries appears to be comparable with the Pentax originals

My advice: Go for a K10D + 16-45 + 50-200 . . . now ! ! !

There will be occasions in the future when you will not want to tote around the bigger and heavier DA* lenses so the 16-45 + 50-200 will suit perfectly.

If not, ebay them.

I'm really not sure... I don't mind carrying around two or three 'large' zoom lenses. This is especially true when i want a 'rugged' system for middle of nowhere locations and cross-country travel by foot.

I do want to get a few pancakes for the light day out but there is a limited selection for a 'natural' viewing angle with the cropped sensors. The 21mm is 32.3mm which is quite good, but then next step up is 40mm which is 61.2. The Limited 31mm is just about right at 47.43mm equivalent but expensive.