PM sent about Sigma 17-70

Lens now sold.

Thank you.

PM replied

I'm having a bit of a sort out of the kit, and have decided to sell this lens because I'm not using it enough.

It is in fully working order, in excellent condition, and I can see no dust or fungus inside the lens (at least not with my slightly failing eyesight!).
Complete with caps, case, hood, leaflets and (unopened) shoulder strap for the case.

Not much more to say about it really, other than my asking price which is £30 including UK delivery.

I was having the same problem with SR not having stabilised before I was taking the picture (in particular with panning shots) and getting unsharp images. I now make more of an effort to let it stabilise before pressing the button!, and for panning I turn it off and use higher shutter speeds (except with the Sigma 70-200 which has a SR panning mode)

I don't know about the Pentax 1.7 but with the Tamron 1.4 I have never seen any significant drop in image quality. The Tamron does seem to be quite sought after, and is consequently a rare and expensive item.
I had it with me at SRS once, when I was trying out a sigma 150-500. The salesman in the shop seemed quite surprised that it managed to autofocus.

Yes, it does - but it is slower to focus, so better for static rather than moving subjects

PM sent

The Gordy wrist strap link works well, allowing you to hand hold the camera while acting as a safety measure in case you drop it. It's light and not bulky like a neck strap wrapped around your wrist.

I use the 'string' type, which doesn't get in the way and allows easy access to all the camera controls. I'd recommend the larger strap which is a looser fit and allows more freedom of movement. It does have an 'adjuster' on it that allows you to tighten the fit around your wrist.

It's not the cheapest, but I do find it's comfortable. Ordered mine from the US and it arrived fairly quickly.

Maybe use the 'rehearsal' shots as a backup to the live event, with the possibility of a bit of post processing afterwards if you need to!