If you enjoy wide angle, this lens is a must have. The wide perspective you get with the Pentax smc DA 12-24mm can create some really great effects when you get close to a subject.
Focusing is fast and precise, with occasional hunting in low light but in general it was very good on my K10D. On my K-II5 the autofocus works fine, even in low light. It works slightly better than on the K10D.
I personally do not mind the size of the lens hood as long as it does the job it was intended to do. The optical quality of this Pentax lens is excellent, sharpness is as impressive as colors and contrast.
I simply love this ultra-wide zoom lens.
Which lenses do you prefer?