The worst lens in the world? MC Hanimex Automatic 1:2.8 28mm

Cost: $9 (average market price $33)

If you google this lens, you will get very limited hits (aside from for-sale postings), and the first few hits are about how bad this lens really is (http://forum.mflenses.com/maybe-the-worst-lens-of-the-world-hanimex-hanimar-28mm-12-8-t67179.html). So is this lens really that bad?

You can find also a few rare reviews talking more positively, and so is my review. Hanimex is a re-brander for imported lenses from low-cost manufacturers, so most lenses are likely to be of low quality, but the 1:2.8 28mm might be the exception, or maybe I just got a good one.

Is it perfect? Nope, but it seems to be sharp enough (it's not a Zeiss for sure) and was very easy to use. Butter smooth focus and great focus peaking on my Sony a6000. Focus just seems to snap in place. Nice for a manual lens. Take a look at the pictures below... I would never expect to take a bird picture with a 28mm lens, even with a significant crop. On top, the lens can focus on a very small distance, making this a very versatile lens as it can be used for Macro and Landscape (28mm becomes 42mm on an APS-C sensor).

Looks are also nice. A compact lens, with a solid metal feel. The green lines seems to be typical for Hanimex lenses.

Not a bad find, again in a Thrifty's Store.

Lens Specification:
Focal Length: 28mm
Maximum Aperture: F2.8
Minimum Aperture: F22
Image Format: 35mm
Lens Mount: C/Y
Optics: 7 elements, 7 groups
Blades: 5 blades
Focussing: Manual
Minimum Focus: 25cm
Maximum Magnification: ?x
Filter Size: 49mm
Weight: 160g
Length: 49mm
Production: likely in the 70's
Serial Number: 147845

More information on Hanimex

Samples:

1/60 sec - ISO125 - Handheld - Cropped

1/125 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/125 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/1000 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/250 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

1/400 sec - ISO100 - Handheld

Sources:
Camerapedia - Hanimex
Wikipedia PK lenses
MFLenses.com