I use the Fujinon XS8X4AS-XB8 wide angle on my EX3. Love the lens, but lately the focus ring has become stiff, needing a fair bit of effort to turn it - not good for hand held work. Any suggestions for a quick fix or is it a repair job for Sony? The standard lens is fine.

I should have said that this is not a grittiness problem. The action is perfectly smooth, but stiff. My standard lens in comparison can be adjusted by the mere tip of my finger, but the widey needs a fair grip and firm torque applied. For every action there is an opposite reaction and so i'm getting some twisting in the shots when they should be steady.

There are some differences in the torque needed to turn the focus ring on different lenses, but too much effort almost certainly means a defect somewhere. Especially focusing should be a very smooth action, with almost no noticeable friction. I would have the lens checked, because this problem can ruin more than one shot. I doubt though if Sony will fix this, probably it's the Fujinon dealer network that will be able to help you out.