My old Pentax FA 28-80 is in need of a $100 repair bill and I'm looking at replacing it with a Pentax FA 28-105. Pentax Currently has 2 in the $200 range. One is a f3.2-4.5 and the other is a f4.4-5.6. Obviously there are other differences, for example, the lens/groups construction and the filter size. But for only about $10 difference which one is the overall best. Is there a third party AF lens in the f28 - 80/105 that I should consider that would be better for my $200. Thanks for the advice, Paul
If you really want a perfect lens for family and friends look for a used 35-135mm. They have been out of production a long time but it's worth the effort to find one. http://community.webtv.net/bcory/Mynewhobby
The people on the Pentax mailing list speak very highly of the old Power Zoom 28-105. (See http://stans-photography.info/) You may find one second hand somewhere. I bit heavy but reportedly excellent optics. I've had very good experience with the Sigma 28-135/3.8-5.6 (though I sold it when I got a 28-70/2.8) which can be had for well under $200 these days. If you can tolerate some pincushion distortion at the long end it's worth trying.
