Review on Pentax D FA F2.8ED SDM WR 15-30mm f/2.8: The Ultimate Pentax K Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens by Dennis Brinson

The first thing that strikes you about this lens is its weight. The lens is a bit large and very durable. While I prefer to have the focus ring facing forward and the zoom ring facing back toward the body, both are easily accessible without moving the grip. There's a good radius that keeps fingers in front of the zoom ring, which balances this lens well and makes it comfortable to hold. The next thing you'll notice once you've mounted and used your lens is the autofocus. If you test it at 15mm, ask yourself if it's broken. "How was I able to concentrate?" you ask. "I didn't even hear anything, and I have a set of SDM lenses, including Pentax lenses*!" you will say. Then increase the focal length to 30mm and try to get the focus motor to go through all its steps. Near, far, doesn't matter. This lens ensures precise focus before the pressure signal travels from your finger to your brain. Yes, it's that fast. And it's quiet. At extreme focus settings, a faint noise can be heard in the quietest room. if you listen to this And the lens focuses so quickly that you have to try listening a second and third time to make sure you can actually hear the sound! With weather protection and a maximum aperture of 2.8 over the entire zoom range, I am convinced. The only thing keeping this lens from the D-FA* badge is the fact that it's a rebranded Tamron lens. I understand why Pentax chose Tamron for this lens. This thing is outstanding. After dancing back and forth for a while trying to decide if this is worth pre-ordering for use with my new K-1; I must say that this lens presents no difficulties. If you pick up the K-1 and like shooting with an ultra wide angle lens, this lens is a must!