Erstwhile PDMLer and sharp-lens fanatic Shel Belinkoff wrote that this is the zoom for people who don't like zooms. He prefers it to the Pentax 24-50 f/4 PKA. It's the only zoom he uses regularly, and the build quality leaves nothing to be desired.
If the idea of a 24-35mm manual-focus zoom appeals to you, but not the idea of spending $200 or more, you might want to explore some other options in used glass: 20-40 f/2.7-3.5 Tamron two-touch (77mm filter) 21-35 f/3.5-4.2 Sigma one-touch 24-40 constant f/2.8 XR Rikenon two-touch (same as the Tokina AT-X below) 24-40 constant f/2.8 Tokina AT-X two-touch; offers the PKA setting, unlike the Rikenon 24-45 f/3.8 (I think) by Soligor 24-48 constant f/3.5 Vivitar Series 1 24-48 constant f/3.8 Vivitar Series 1 (not quite as sharp as the original f/3.5) 24-48 f/3.5-3.8 Tamron SP Some of these are available at surprisingly low prices; nearly all, including the f/2.8s, usually cost less than the Pentax 24-35. However, most are considerably larger and heavier. I have photos of all, if you're interested, plus selected specs and collected comments for most. [EMAIL PROTECTED]
