Telezoom question

Hi all!

Having built up a nice collection of Pentax glass, the last to be sorted is the tele-zoom. I have a choice of three lenses, given in order of my probably preference:

1. SMC-F 80-200/f4.7-5.6
2. SMC-F 100-300/f4.5-5.6
3. SMC-FAJ 80-320/f4.5-5.6

I will be replacing an aging Sigma 70-300mm DL Macro lens.

Has anyone had any experience with these? Occassionally the 300mm is useful, but on the *istD a 200mm is normally fine.

Just wish there was an SMC-DA that went from 50mm to 200mm... (the SMC-DA 16-45 is positively wonderful, only just below the SMC-F 100mm/f2.8 macro for deliciousness).

Thanks!
Matt

Hi Mattmatic,
I have used the SMC-FA 80-200/f4.7-5.6 which is the same optically. The performance was generally OK but not outstanding. As is common with many of the era of pentax lens, it seems a bit lightweight in the build quality but then I am used to the older Pentax glass. I have now lent it to my son on permanent loan for his *ist and he is quite happy.

Haven't used the SMC-F 100-300/f4.5-5.6 but have used the FA 100-300/4.7-5.8. It's reputation is not that great but I don't think it's that bad. It's performance is again OK but not startling. However, I tend not to use it. At the long end it's a bit slow so I tend to use my A*300/F4 for long work and other lenses at the short end. However, it's mint boxed if you are interested
Regards
Kim

Thanks Kim!
Yes, stans-photography.info mentioned the FA 80-200 being worse build quality than the F.
Might drop you a PM depending on the feedback of the other lenses
Matt

The F 70-210 4.5-5.6 is generally regarded as one of the best in that range. I personally wouldn't buy an 80-320 because the zoom range (1:4) must cause compromises.

The F 70-210 4.5-5.6 is generally regarded as one of the best in that range. I personally wouldn't buy an 80-320 because the zoom range (1:4) must cause compromises.