Bill, I've had this lens for about 2 years now, and agree with everything you've said. I describe it as a long stovepipe, with the mount stuck on one end. I'm surprised you are able to balance it on a gimbaled head. I use it on a ballhead and crank it down as tight as I can, plus use my focusing hand to absorb vibration. With the thing being so long from the mounting point, it creates a pretty big arc for every little movement.
That said, when battened down, it is marvelously sharp, even with the 1.4XL converter and an ist D: http://groups.msn.com/wsawyerphotography/wildlife.msnw?action=ShowPhoto&Phot oID=179 Fred W. used to state that he could hand hold his with reasonable results, I don't even try to pan with it any more. Within it's limits, though, I think it's a great lens. Bill Sawyer Livonia, MI -----Original Message----- From: William Robb [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, August 21, 2005 12:18 AM To: Pentax Discuss Subject: A couple of PESOs I finally managed to get out with the 600 and do some shooting. This les is a challenge to shoot with, to be sure. Anyone using long lenses (Ken, Tom!!!) any tips or advice for using one of these beasties would be appreciated. Anyway, a couple of my less embarrasing atempts with the big gun are here.... http://users.accesscomm.ca/wrobb/pictures/peso/wingedrats1.html http://users.accesscomm.ca/wrobb/pictures/peso/wingedrats2.html William Robb
