I never thought of 10-20 as having too much distortions. But f5.6 at 20mm is a bit inconvenient. So I'm thinking of DA14 too.
DA15 is sweet because of it's size.. but I don't know...

And the old K/A15 they are a hefty chunks of glass

If DA40 is out of price bracket, have a look at F50/1.7. They usually go for around £100 and are stunning lenses. AF as fast as DA40, great contrast, colour rendition, sharpness etc....
now 50 maybe too long, but for kids I think it would be great....

are you using split prism focusing screen?
To be honest, without that I couldn't MF anything but the 400/5.6 I used to own.
Even my Sigma 105/2.8 gave a lot of trouble!
With split prism screen it's much easier. I still miss some shots, but mostly they are fine...

thank you Kris.
Yes, the K series is lovely. So lovely I'm considering selling my ltds to fund other Ks (35/2 specificaly) and save some cash
With the 24 it's love hate relationship, when it delivers, it does great... but being 24mm "only" 2.8 and on APSC VF (even with magnifying cup and split screen) I'm having hard time to focus it!
... maybe for the right price......

If you have the chance, go for 1.7 version. Reportedly they are quite a bit better than the f2 versions...

my 2p

Third vote for DA40 here.
Alternatively: FA31, FA35, F/FA50/1.7

I had DA40 as my first prime and loved it! It's a great little lens capable of big results!

Thank you for kind words guys, appreciate.
As for the lighting and so on...I still have a long way to go... be patient please

Kris, where are you buying your lenses???
K200 & K135/2.5 under £100 in London? I need to know the vendor!
I could imagine the slow versions of 28 and 35 and some generations of 50s to be under £100 but not those longer ones... well, ok 200 yes, but not the 135/2.5

as for your question, as others, I'd sell the camera and keep and use the lens. It would match my silver 31 & 43 very well

Dangermouse, was the K120/2.8 from Carmarthen cameras? I was looking at that one, but decided to pass on it... If you'll get bored of that lens, PM me... I'll take it of you

Nice one Kris...

thanks guys,
appreciate your comments