Pentax support is nowhere near that of the big guys because Pentax is a little guy. Really, that is common sense. If I wanted or needed a more extensive support network -- with software, documents, etc. -- I would certainly have bought into a different brand.

Offer accepted. Transaction in progress.

It shouldn't be disappointing at all. But please remember difficulty in shooting at that sliver of a DOF.

In either case it is an excellent lens and great value for money.

Stick with your desire for an excellent prime. Go for the DA70 if you like that focal length. Better yet, get the FA77 and never look back.

There is no comparison between an FA77 and the DA50-200. Besides all the obvious photographic benefits (sharpness, DOF control, bokeh) there is an intangible "something" to using one specific focal length. Not to mention the tactile effect of the superlative build quality.

For macro I just screw on an adapter. Now I have a perfect portrait lens, a perfect short tele, a great detail lens and a pretty darned good macro. A typical shot follows.

[IMG]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4703197433_7f1ee6491f_b.jpg[/IMG]

Yes! Emails sent!

I have determined it is best to send this as two packages. Both are on the borderline of weight for their categories so I would have to wait for the post office to make the final determination. However, if lucky the shipping to EU destinations will be as follows, for a Registered Packet:

* tripod: £12.50
* camera kit + rest of items: £12.50

If they are in the next category up, they would need to be sent as a Registered Parcel for £28 each.

(To Ireland about £10.50 in each case.)

Priority or Courier shipping arranged on request.

Thank you for the explanation, as I was quite confused as well by the post, not having seen the removed messages.

I am offering a complete K-x kit (body plus DA L 18-55mm zoom), in traditional black, completely unopened and unused for only...

380 GBP plus PayPal charges and shipping

But wait, there's more. You can take any and all of the following, free of charge when you buy the kit. Why? I can't be bothered selling separately. Plus I'd love to know I've helped get a new Pentax shooter on their way.

* Sandisk Ultra 4GB SDHD memory card
* Hama Track Pack camera bag
* Hama TV-2595 LXS tripod (has a three-way pan head)
* Ni-MH battery re-charger

All of these are mint, unused and in original packaging (excepting that the re-charger has no box). Just add Eneloop batteries and you're a proud Pentax shooter! For those who don't know, the K-x is the current entry-level Pentax camera, but has the best sensor of any model to date. It's also the smallest and lightest. So far I am loving mine!


Why Am I Selling?

Due to circumstances rather unusual, I have received two K-x kits in the same week. One was a prize, the other a warranty replacement. Since I don't need both, this is the perfect chance for some lucky reader to save on a complete starter kit. I am selling this for less than what the receipt says I paid for it last week. It's also under SRS price.

Not to mention all the freebies!

I will respond to PMs in order of receipt. First confirmed payment takes this set. I have a perfect transaction record on Pentax Forums and also on eBay. (IDs provided on request.) Buy with confidence!

P.S. The receipt is from Argos and so useful to those living in Ireland or the UK. But even elsewhere Pentax will honour their warranty.

Answer: No.

Slightly longer answer: About any lens will be OK at f/5.6.