On the 'just one lens' front I think the DA35 actually narrowly takes it, given being slightly wider and having macro for 'take any shot you like'. For me at least, the DA40's size is more about fitting it into a bag/pocket (it doesn't look much thicker than the lens cap ) rather than making the camera easier to carry.

Aaargh, don't say that

Well the occasional reactions of "WTF is that" would add some comedy to my photographic life! Out of interest Mike, what is that foam keyring-like thing on your K7?

The hole in the ozone layer is actually just about fixed (ie gone) thanks to the international ban on CFCs. Global warming is a different issue from the integrity of our protective layers.

I know quite a few people on here have this - is it as sharp wide open as Photozone suggests? I've been eyeing the DA35 for a while, but wondering whether having a non-macro lens with fast AF (is it really that quick?) would be a more useful addition to my current flock than the DA35. Am I mad?

PS: The collector/sentimentalist in me wants to get the DA35 in order to complete the 'set'

As well as the new body/bodies, there are persistent rumors of a new lens coming out at Photokina possibly of the DA* 'fast normal' (ie f2 and somewhere between 24 and 30mm) variety.

Just for the benefit of anyone else reading this in future, I think I might have found the answer:

http://www.warehouseexpress.com/rain-covers-stormjackets/b3023-m362

A bit pricey, but less pricey than screwing up a nice lens I guess!

If solicitors are involved then it would be best not to air the matter in public until the legal process is resolved.

Trying to take building shots with the Sigma 10-20 and its baby lens hood in the rain. One of life's great adventures

Hmm maybe I should buy some of those daft Optech Rainsleeves, but cut the camera body section off so it's just a lens cover. Suppose they're probably made of more water-resistant plastic than a carrier bag, and the lack of zoomring accessibility gives me an excuse to stick to primes

EDIT: Or maybe not. Any suggestions for a suitable material? Really don't want to have Tesco logos wrapped round my DFA100

How important is weather sealing/resistance on lenses, assuming a weather sealed body? I've been under the impression that, so long as the lens is properly dried out afterwards (ie not put in a sealed plastic box for the moisture to linger ) there is no immense hazard to most weather. Is this true?

PS: Any suggestion that this has anything to do with the DA17-70 being the latest on my 'maybe list' is just a vicious lie

How recently did you buy the lens? If it won't focus properly even with maximum in-camera adjustment then the lens is defective. Return it to the seller and demand a replacement/refund (or send it in for warranty service if 'recently' means a month or more ago)