In article
>I was wondering if there is a clear concensous as to who makes the best
>screw on filters? Any comments concerning those available will be very
>welcome.
My standard is: good-enough-so-that-the-differences-between-it-and-more-
expensive-filters-cannot-be-distinguished-either-mechanically-or-optically,
so my choice is Hoya (though I own mostly Nikkors...;-). I would look for
good glass quality and well-made/well-designed rims (metal, thin,
well-finished). For me, multicoating is not essential, but at least
single-coating is. In the ideal filter, the frame is very rigid but
minimal in size, is smooth and well-machined, and it holds the glass
somewhat loosely to allow for expansion/contraction of the glass without
stress. The glass should be flat, edge-finished, at least single-coated
on both sides, and without defects. Except for polarizers, the filters
should be dyed glass - not glass-gel sandwiches. Hoya, Nikkor, B&W,
Leitz, Heliopan, etc. are good brands, but if one throws in price....;-)
Hope This Helps
(David Ruether - http://www.fcinet.com/ruether )