> I purchased an M85/2 when it was first introduced (outrageously priced) > and focusing was smooth and not stiff right out of the box. (still is)
That was my experience with the used-but-apparently-close-to-new sample that I once had. > Perhaps lack of use and aging combine to stiffen it. I think internal lube grease can dry and stiffen over time, although this may not be a factor with every lens. On the other hand, using a lens frequently will usually tend to lighten its focusing resistance after a while. > And I know others dislike this lens, but I've got some memorable pix with > it. It's not the sharpest 85 out there, and it certainly is not the most optically interesting 85, but it does a good job with portraits nonetheless, and is fun to use for such. Fred
