The Sigma 28-80 AF zoom

<p>This zoom has lightweight construction (as befitting its low price even when new), but optically it is really quite good. On the used market they are very cheap. My copy is in Pentax AF flavor. I had a choice of using it on my Pentax ZX-5 (and posting here) or on my Pentax MX and posting in CMC. Since the ZX-5 already had a roll of Portra 160VC loaded, it got the vote. A great feature is that when macro focus is selected, you still have autofocus. </p>

<p>Here is a shot of the lens and camera.</p><div></div>

<p>Top view.</p><div></div>

<p>This lens is usually the lens I keep on my ZX-5. The roll of Portra was started last February during a snow and then forgotten. I picked it up again last week. First, a wide view.</p><div></div>

<p>From a distance.</p><div></div>

<p>At medium distance.</p><div></div>

<p>Some macro now.</p><div></div>

<p>One criticism of budget close focus zooms is the lack of flat field at close range. I think this one does better than average as the last shot shows. </p><div></div>

<p>Did I mention this lens is a bit of a sleep as well? Unlike some budge wide to tele close focus zooms, this one actually autofocuses in the close focus range courtesy of a switch. Speedometer close up was done in that fashion.</p>

<p>This was my first ever AF lens. I bought it used in mint condition in the box on ebay for $45 in June, 2000, to go on my newly purchased N70 body (in mint condition for $300). I thought the Tamron 28-80mm lens was terrific! I was very impressed with it, despite the cheap construction. I replaced it with the venerable Nikon 28-105mm AF-D IF that September and never looked back. Still have the Nikon 28-105mm too, it works well on my D700.</p>