Let us have a look at the sample called Helios 44-3 2/58 MS. This Helios-44 X and Helios 44m X sample has become not so widely spread as other 44 Helios models. The year of 1986 is the date of the release of the lens at the optical- mechanical plant in Minsk.
DOF indicators contain yellow and red markings, it is possible to adjust the focused distance and aperture to get the best shot. As for the description of this model, you should pay attention to the fact that MS Helios 44-3 2/58 has notable similarities with Helios-44-2. Differences do exist, they are different manufacturers, different types of antireflection, besides, these lenses have different body frames.
MS in the name stands for having such option as «multi-antireflection» in Russian. Models with these features are less common, as usual MS versions include Helios-44m-X, and Helios-44-X does not belong to them.
Comparing Helios-44m-X and Helios-44-X lens versions we can mark that the letter «M» stands for the blinking or bouncing aperture in Russian. For the version that does not contain «M», the lens control is performed only in manual mode. The latter will be quite good if you want to use a DSLR camera. For example, a model called Helios 44m uses a bouncing aperture mechanism (or blinking). It doesn’t have a manual control mode.
Let’s go back to Helios 44-3 2/58 MS. We can mark that there are rings for pre-fixing and controlling of the aperture. At the same time it is possible to close the aperture fast enough to achieve the desired shot. Today’s DSLR cameras allow you to take advantage of this option. We should also mark sufficient smoothness during focusing. It should be taken into consideration that the maximum focuser ring rotation is 270 degrees. All lenses move by helicoids, DOF scales are determined by the following positions: F16, 8, 4, 2. If you use F2.0 you can note that sharpness is very well performed in terms of depth.
There is a possibility of using Helios-44-3 2/58 MS on Nikon D40, D20 cameras during the installation of lensless M42 adapters, but it loses focus at infinity focusing. It should be emphasized that if you use the adapter for M42 thread, the focus ring will be blocked, and it will be quite uncomfortable.