Covering a versatile range of wide-angle focal lengths, the HD Pentax DA* 11-18mm f/2.8 ED DC AW from Pentax is a 17-27.5mm-equivalent zoom for APS-C-format cameras. The lens's wide design and bright f/2.8 maximum aperture make it particularly well-suited to astrophotography applications, as well as landscape and interior shooting. The optical design incorporates a series of aspherical and low dispersion elements, which help to control distortion and color fringing for improved sharpness and clarity, and an Aero Bright II Coating has been applied to benefit contrast and color accuracy. Additionally, a Super Protect Coating, along with a weather-sealed design, make this lens suitable for use in trying weather conditions.

K-Mount Lens/APS-C Format    17-27.5mm (35mm Equivalent)    Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22    Two Aspherical Elements, Two ED Elements    One ED Aspherical Element    Aero Bright II and SP Coatings    DC Autofocus Motor    Quick-Shift Focus System, Focus Clamp    Weather-Sealed Construction    Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm

Wide-angle zoom is designed for APS-C-format Pentax K-mount cameras and offers a 17-27.5mm equivalent focal length range.

Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture suits working in difficult lighting conditions and offers consistent illumination throughout the zoom range.

Two aspherical elements, two extra-low dispersion elements, and one aspherical element made from extra-low dispersion glass are used to significantly reduce both spherical and chromatic aberrations throughout the zoom range for improved sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy.

Aero Bright II Coating has been applied to individual elements to minimize ghosting and flare for greater contrast and color neutrality when working in strong lighting conditions.

SP (Super Protect) Coating has also been applied to the front element to guard against moisture and grease.

DC motor delivers quick and precise autofocus performance and an integrated Focus Clamp mechanism can be used to lock the focusing position in place to prevent accidental adjustments. A quick-shift focusing clutch mechanism also affords fast switching between autofocus and manual focus operation.

Weather-resistant construction incorporates 10 distinct seals about the lens body to prevent the intrusion of moisture or dust.

Dedicated space for wrapping an optional heating device around the lens to prevent freezing and condensation from accumulating when working in cold temperatures.

Rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does internal focusing shorten the focal length slightly like with the 60-250?

A: that's a little above my technical 'expertise.' i'm just beginning to get familiar with the lens myself

Q: 2. Is this lens compatible with the Rear Converter 1.4x L? I accept that the converter will not do auto focus. Only need to know if it will fit and the Aperture function will work correctly.

A: Pentax 1.4x HD PENTAX-DA AF Rear Converter AW for K-Mount Lenses p/n 37962 The rear converter works flawlessly with both the camera-driven AF system and the lens-driven AF system, including that of the SDM and DC-series lenses. The camera's firmware must be updated to the latest version before using the autofocus function. It is a Full format converter

Q: 3. Is this lens compatible with the K-50?

A: Yes it is.

Q: 4. How was your experience for using it on Pentax 645z camera?

A: This is designed for Pentax DSLRs and will not be compatible with the 645z.

Q: 5. Is the silver part of the lens on the silver version made out of metal or it is plastic coated with silver layer?

A: The Pentax HD PENTAX-D FA* 70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW Silver Edition Lens is manufactured from a machined aluminum barrel and has a finely textured finish. The silver finish is simply painted aluminum metal.

Q: 6. Can you put a filter over the front objective lens? It looks like it sticks out a little past the housing...

A: Yes the Pentax HD PENTAX-D FA* 85mm f/1.4 ED SDM AW Lens can use any 82mm filter.

Q: 7. Is this lens compatible with Pentax K3 iii Monochrome?

A: Yes, the Pentax HD PENTAX-D FA* 85mm f/1.4 ED SDM AW Lens is compatible with the Pentax K3III Monochrome Camera.

Q: 8. Is this a variable aperture lens? Meaning will the aperture change when I zoom in or out?

A: The Pentax HD PENTAX D FA* 70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW Lens is a constant aperture lens, not a variable aperture lens.

Q: 9. Is this lens made by Tamron (like the great 15-30mm)? Thanks

A: The Pentax HD PENTAX-D FA* 85mm f/1.4 ED SDM AW Lens is made by Pentax.

Q: 10. Is this compatible with a K100D?

A: Yes, it is compatible.