I use the K20D for wildlife and Superbike races, no problems.

Yes AKA "The Hoover"

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some opinions of the Sigma 120-400 APO HSM, mainly image quality. I'm currently using the DA*300/4 with various TC'c (Tamron 1.4 Pz_AF and Teleplus 1.5x & 1.7x Pz-AF SHQ) I usually also carry a DA*200/2.8 and Tamron 90mm Di Macro. I'm looking for something I can use as a walk around nature lens without resorting to carrying a back pack. The Macro abilities are not a major priority, just the quality @ 200mm-400mm. I know the Pentax version does not have the OS, but does it still contain the lens elements required but fixed in place? I've seen numerous reviews, some quite positive, but non using the Pentax mount (no surprises there!) hence the question regards the optical design. Most Canon reviews claim the 100-400 IS dust pump to be superior optically, but then they would wouldn't they......

All comments appreciated, sample photos more than welcome.

TIA

John

Hi Tom, I have the DA*300/4 with several TC's, I've been using a Kenko 1.5x SHQ (rebadged Teleplus) with good results and also a Teleplus 1.7x SHQ with the subsequent loss of a little sharpness and contrast. Both support SDM, quite often the combination hunts either side of the subject but locks on nicely after a manual tweak using quick shift. I heard the Tamron 1.4x was better, but performs in exactly the same manner regarding AF. I must stress I was using the lens hand held, AF seems more accurate/positive from a good tripod. Overall I'm pleased with the results, however the camera (K20D) still assumes you have a 300mm f/4 mounted therefore SR is not optimal. IMHO there's no substitute for a fast shutter speed when shooting wildlife anyway! The following was taken with the DA*300/4 and 1.5x TC:

https://www.pentaxuser.com/photo/kingfisher-17187/large

Regards,

John

I have DA*16-50/2.8, DA*200/2.8 and DA*300/4 no problems with any of them.

John

I'm quite happy with the IQ of the combo, you're comment on the Sigma 150-500 is of interest as I need something longer than 300mm, hence the use of TC's. I was seriously considering the Sigma 120-400 APO HSM but have some reservations, I'd really like a Sigma 400/5.6 APO Tele Macro, but they're hard to come by. What I'd really like is a Pentax SDM 1.4x TC or DA*400/5.6, nothing faster as I can't afford it

John

In good working order please, fair price paid or may consider a trade for other Pentax items

Hi Leech, I have the DA*300/4 with several TC's, the Sigma 1.4 EX does not support SDM at present. I've been using a Kenko 1.5x SHQ (rebadged Teleplus) with good results and also a Teleplus 1.7x SHQ with the subsequent loss of a little sharpness and contrast. Both support SDM, quite often the combination hunts either side of the subject but locks on nicely after a manual tweak using quick shift. I heard the Tamron 1.4x was better, but performs in exactly the same manner regarding AF. I must stress I was using the lens hand held, AF seems more accurate/positive from a good tripod. Overall I'm pleased with the results, however the camera (K20D) still assumes you have a 300mm f/4 mounted therefore SR is not optimal. IMHO there's no substitute for a fast shutter speed when shooting wildlife anyway! The following was taken with the DA*300/4 and 1.5x TC:

https://www.pentaxuser.com/photo/kingfisher-17187/large

John