A versatile wide-angle to telephoto zoom for Pentax DSLRs, the HD PENTAX DA 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 ED DC WR Lens offers a 24.5-130mm-equivalent focal length to benefit working in a wide variety of shooting situations. One extra-low dispersion glass element and three aspherical elements have been incorporated within the optical design to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion throughout the zoom range and an HD (High-Definition) coating has been applied to maintain light transmission and reduce surface reflections. Additionally, an SP (Super Protect) coating has also been applied to the front and rear lens surfaces and an overall weather-resistant construction benefits this lens' use in a wide array of working conditions.

With regard to handling, a Quick-Shift focusing system enables switching between autofocus and manual focus modes quickly and intuitively by simply rotating the focus ring at any time. The lens is able to achieve minimum focusing distance of 1.15' along with a maximum magnification of 0.26x. Additionally, a rounded seven-blade diaphragm renders a smooth out-of-focus quality when employing selective focus or shallow depth of field techniques.