Pentax smc DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED AL (IF) SDM

Resolution: Very, very good in the center (1/3) , but very bad iin rest 2/3 ( f 4 or less); Excellent at f 5,6 or more, very sharp (print at 40 cm x 60 cm). Color and contrast, superb. In 16 mm high distorsion. Hermetic, no problem with water or dust. Perfect to nature and mountain. Camera K20D.

This lens gets less credit than it deserves based on the reviews. Very optimal focal range for landscape photography, especially backpacking. I'll take the extra 4 degree maximum angle of view over the 17-55 off-brands extra 5 mm on the long end--way better for landscape photography needs. The lens build is so nice--needs to be if it's going to be your primary shooting lens. I love how the focus ring spins freely when you go beyond the upper and lower limits. The lens is sharp enough for ...

This lens gets less credit than it deserves based on the reviews. Very optimal focal range for landscape photography, especially backpacking. I'll take the extra 4 degree maximum angle of view over the 17-55 off-brands extra 5 mm on the long end--way better for landscape photography needs. The camera build is so nice--needs to be if it's going to be your primary shooting lens. I love how the focus ring spins freely when you go beyond the upper and lower limits. The lens is sharp enough ...

This lens is fabulous but its not perfect here is what I think of it PROS: 1) fabulous build quality 2) great weather sealing 3) near silent autofocus 4) good center contrast 5) good color CONS: 1) very heavy and big 2) zoom ring very uneven 3) edge sharpness is pretty bad wide open 4) expensive ($800 vs tamron 17-50 f/2.8 for $400) 5) autofocus is pretty slow (not horrible though)

This lens produces excellent contrast and color rendition. The weather-resistant sealing really works, as the lens held up in wet (Colorado River) and dusty (Antelope Canyon, Arizona) conditions. There is, however, a QC issue as it took me a few returns before I got a keeper. This lens is so good, it was worth a little hassle. (this is my Amazon.com review from March, 2008)