Achiever 1850STW Auto Thyristor Flash

The Achiever 1850STW is one of those wonderfully over-engineered flashes that reminds you just how serious flash photography could get before everything disappeared behind an LCD screen.

This Pentax-dedicated version gives you TTL support with compatible cameras, alongside Achiever's Auto Thyristor system and manual control. The main flash head can bounce and swivel, while the smaller secondary flash on the front lets you keep a little direct light on your subject when the main head is pointed elsewhere.

There’s also adjustable flash coverage and a full exposure calculator on the back, so you’ve got plenty of control whether you’re letting the camera handle things or working it out yourself.

It’s big, capable and unmistakably from its era. A great companion for a classic Pentax SLR when you want more than a basic direct flash.

Best for

Pentax film SLRs, portraits, indoor photography, bounce flash, more controlled lighting and photographers building a classic Pentax setup.

What to expect

This is a much more versatile flash than a simple fixed-head unit.

The main head can be tilted and swivelled, letting you bounce light from walls or ceilings for a softer result. The secondary front flash can then add a small amount of direct illumination, which is particularly useful for portraits.

With compatible Pentax cameras, the dedicated Module P connection provides TTL functionality. You can also work with the flash's Auto Thyristor system or take manual control when needed.