Now that's a good idea.

I mean in general terms. If a lens is only sharp at one f stop and one focal length, then it's almost useless.

The standard lens produces good results across it's full range, meaning that as a cheap starter lens and for general photography it's ideal. Unlike a certain ca.... I wont say any more.

You, Stefan have moved beyond the need for a 'standard' lens and as such have bought a better lens. Let's not forget that we nearly all started our Pentas DSLR shooting with a version of this lens and that they served us well until we moved on.

I'm thankfull that Pentax still see the standard lens as a valuable item and not a throw away object that gives poor results.

Yes we do Stefan, but you can't get e good picture with a poor lens!

I'm in agreement with the ropes in group. #2 definitely stands out.

Great shots Karl, I'll try and visit the cross myself.

For travelling light(?) I've just got a Sigma 18-200. It covers the range I use frequently on short city breaks.

An 18/28-300 could be a good lens, but I've not seen any reports/reviews on this type, although the vignetting and apertures seem to be a problem at these extremes.

What have I said before?

Probably the best Kit lens out there.

Nice shots, that's why mine stay on the cameras when we travel.

Good point mikew, I was thinking long lens but not considering the wide end.

That said I've just picked up a Sigma 18-200 at a very good price so making my travel kit redundant. It doesn't look like 200 at the long end although it tells the body it is, If I'd had the cash I would have gone for the Tamron version but...

Back on topic, what do you feel you need a lens for next Brian?

I thought about it but the 6 pints one we have from tesco seems a little opaque!

Something to do with it being plastic the wife says!

The 18-55 you have is probably one of the best out there, I like my MK2 version and use it an awful lot. The 50-200 I have no experience with, but my Sigma version sits well alongside the 18-55 when travelling.

The next lens I would suggest would be something like the Pentax 55-300 for those wildlife shots.

Which lens are you testing next Hefty?

With a series of brilliant reviews like this you could end up working for a magazine.

How about a comparison of old(er)50mm and new(er) ones?