35mm SLR · From 1975

Pentax K mount cameras

Pentax introduced the K bayonet in 1975 with the K2, KM and KX, replacing the M42 screw mount, and the K1000 followed in 1976. It's a three-tab bayonet that locks with about a 70° turn. Lenses are marked by generation, SMC Pentax, then SMC Pentax-M, then SMC Pentax-A. The KA version of 1983 added six electrical contacts and an A setting on the aperture ring, so KA bodies can set the aperture themselves for program and shutter priority. The P30 in our catalog is a KA body.

Plain K lenses mount on every Pentax body, though later KAF bodies with a simplified mount only meter them stopped down. A lenses need the A setting on a KA body for program and shutter priority. Ricoh's R-K version of the mount adds a small pin for Ricoh's P setting.

4 cameras we cover.