I think a good camera is not one that forces you to gain additional technical skills not required for improvement of the aesthetic quality of your photography, but solely needed to overcome shortcomings of the mechanic instrument in use.

We might enjoy talking gear and specs, nerdy pleasure I suppose. But at least the one that are not consumed by brand fighting, do so based on facts and figures. And however much you want to look the other way and flash other qualities in peoples eyes, it does not take away the reality of the facts.

Still available, but now it has suffered a nick on the lens hood with some paint loss. I`ll post a pic when I can.

In the meanwhile, here are some more pics by this lens:
Heqavy crop



Full frame



Both hand-held, bigger files in my flickr.

Many issues discussed.
I haven't tried all systems but I have used my K10D, and tried 40D, K20D and D80.
When I tried the 40D it was with an L USM lens. It was noticeably faster than the D80 or K20D.
So no, its not just hearsay.
However, it is noteworthy, than both D80 and K20D had kit lenses on them.
So what people generally talk about is what the best in the brand can do. And the best in the brand for Canon and Nikon are clearly superior to best in Pentax.
However, how many of the forum warriors own, will own or will ever need the best in their brand? Hmmm. Its like school yard children fighting about who's brother is bigger and meaner.

For many, most, photographic subjects speed of autofocus is not relevant. Accuracy however is, including in low light.

There is a lot of claims which in truth make little sense. Especially when advising new DSLR buyers. Pentaxians aren't exempt. WR is great but not relevant to everyone. Not everyone, expecially beginners will want to tinker with manual lenses or search the used market for old lenses... So Pentax's baskwards compatibility means little to them.
These things do work for me, that's why I like Pentax, and that's why Pentax is right for me.

Some people will need speed, and they may find that some brands work better than others...

not bad.
This is the last version of the 150-500m right?

This would be a consideration for me, were it not the hefty price for which it will certainly go for.

ROFL
http://edinburgh.gumtree.com/edinburgh/90/53857090.html

Take care, or another might pop up with photo gear instead...
LOL

Yes, there are apparently 3 version of that Sigma and only one is good. Dunno if its good enough though.

Any experiences with the tele-zooms from sigma? I know in the shorter end, I'd be getting a worst lens, but they have good reach.

I know its a cracking lens, but that is a bit too rich for me Mike...
Even what I propose is not for immediate purchase.

Do you use to shoot wildlife or sports?