Should I stay with Pentax?

Bobkraus09 wrote:

I am in a similar place as the OP, with an aperture control failing K-50, but with only two lenses: DA 18-135 WR (not PLM) and a 55-300 WR with the screw motor. The 18-135 seems pretty decent to me, but the 55-300 is just awful - very slow to focus and very loud. I really like the feel of my K-50, and like using Pentax equipment. So I've taken to heart the suggestions for a K-5 or K-3 model to replace the OP's K-50.

I mostly shoot landscape and travel photos, but want to try out BIF & wildlife photography now that I live in Maine. My sister-in-law is a good wildlife photographer with Canon equipment, and happy to take me out and teach me, and share lenses. So a completely new setup with a Canon R7, RF 18-150 & RF 100-400 is a possible new route for me. I have never bought anything but relatively low end cameras & lenses, so may be time to treat myself.

On the other hand, I really like Pentax. If I were to replace the K-50 with a used K-3ii and added the 50-300 PLM lens, would I have a decent BIF setup? The better AF performance from the R7 would help my limited skills. But the Pentax camera and lenses would be weatherproof. And 400mm reach would be better than 300mm...

Could I be happy with a K3ii and 55-300 PLM for BIF/wildlife - or is this a bit of wishful thinking?

Thanks,

Bob

Might be time to treat yourself.  The improvement in the newer mirrorless cameras is exactly in improved focusing which is what you are looking for.  Maybe check out your sister in law's Canon and see what you think?

Having said that, I'd sure keep your Pentax gear and over time look for a good deal on a K5 or K3 because for non-action events they are great cameras to use and still provide excellent quality images.  Plus, you'd have a "rainy day" camera which could prove useful.