Table of Contents
Pentax-A* SMC 600mm f/5.6 ED [IF]
Summary
The SMC Pentax-A* 600mm f/5.6 ED [IF] is a manual-focus super-telephoto prime introduced in 1984 for the Pentax K-mount, and produced until 2000. It was Pentax’s first 600mm lens for 35mm format and part of the elite A* (Star) series, designed to deliver professional-grade optics with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and internal focusing (IF). Though slower than its autofocus F* and FA* 600mm F4 successors, it’s significantly lighter, more compact, and still highly regarded for its optical clarity and handling. The lens features an 8-element, 6-group design with a 9-blade automatic diaphragm, stopping down to f/45. It focuses as close as 5.5 meters, yielding a 0.12× magnification ratio, and uses a rear-mounted 49mm drop-in filter along with an optional 112mm front protective filter. It weighs 3280g, measures 133 × 386mm, and includes a built-in sliding hood, a rotating tripod collar, and a dedicated trunk case. The aperture ring includes an “A” setting for full automation on compatible bodies, and the lens supports Pentax rear converters like the A 1.4X-L and 2X-L.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Pentax |
| Series | A* Series Prime |
| Model | SMC |
| Focal Length | 600mm |
| Max Aperture | f/5.6 ED [IF] |
| Min Aperture | f/45 |
| Format | Full-Frame |
| Image Circle | - |
| Minimum Focus | 550cm |
| Focus Rotation | ° |
| Iris Blades | 9 |
| Optical Design | 8/6 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | 133mm |
| Filter Thread | 112mm, 49mm rear |
| Focus/Zoom Rod | none |
| Native Mount | Pentax K |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 386mm |
| Weight | 3280g |
| Body Telescope | - |
| Body Material | - |
| Focus Drive | - |
| Iris Drive | - |
| Zoom Drive | - |
History
Country of Origin:
Release Date: 1984
Launch Price:
Design Revisions: