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

The Pentax smc DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED telephoto zoom features a slightly greater range of focal lengths than some other lenses in its price range.

The Pentax smc DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 has a 35mm equivalent of 82.5-450mm on a Pentax D-SLR. Where the other lenses have a maximum aperture of f/5.6 at the long end, this is slightly slower at f/5.8 – not by much, but not ideal. Surprisingly, given the extra focal length, it’s also quite a small and lightweight lens weighing in at just 440g.
You’ll find a large zoom ring and fine-grooved manual focus ring at the front and although the build is sound, the light materials employed does give it a budget feel reminiscent of the 18-55mm kit lens.
The latest Pentax D-SLRs incorporate camera-based Shake Reduction so the 55-300mm doesn’t feature any form of anti-shake as it’s not required.
In operation, the lens can be quite noisy owing to the fact there’s no AF motor to help out, so you can expect some whirring and buzzing. It’s not the quickest of lenses, but hunting is kept pretty well under control.

Specification
Street price: £240
Maximum aperture: f/4-5.8
Minimum aperture: f/22-32
Minimum focus:1.4m
Filter size: 58mm
Image stabilisation: No
Dimensions/weight: 71x111.5mm/440g
Mount: Pentax
Website: www.pentax.co.uk