SMC Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED

SMC Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED: Handling

The range of 55-300mm is a very useful one for a variety of applications, including sports, wildlife and landscapes. The 35mm equivalent range is 84.5-460mm, so this lens has a very good reach and some care needs to be taken at the longer end to avoid the possibility of camera shake. Pentax's SR system goes a long way to helping with this, giving a 2-4 stop advantage in terms of usable shutter speeds.

The lens focuses conventionally, using the screw drive system. It buzzes quite audibly as it focuses and can be liable to hunting on some occasions when used with older digital bodies. However, the Quick Shift mechanism can come to the rescue, although for some wildlife subjects it may be necessary to revert to manual focus. Focusing on the new K-5 body is much more efficient and the lens locks on much more reliably.

In other handling respects, Pentax lenses are smooth and trouble free and this zoom is the same. There are no surprises. Focusing is slightly “ratchety” in sound, but smooth enough, the zooming is firm and free from play or creep. The lens hood bayonets firmly into place and is substantial enough to make a real difference.

In terms of quality of manufacture, this is a well made lens and makes good use of engineering plastics to ensure that weight and bulk are kept to a minimum whilst not sacrificing any stability. The metal mount is secure and well finished, substantially held in place by a respectable five screws, rather more solid than the three screw construction of many current mounts.

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