Does anyone actually use Leica's OEM strap? (M-series)

[stormbytes]

Just got my M6 and while the camera's a beauty, the strap leaves much to be desired. I find the bulky, hard plastic rectangular things (I don't know what they are really called) that hold the rings from opening really get in the way of holding the camera.

My preference (with Nikon FM* series) has always been to buy a simple, neoprene strap, pull out to measure, and stitch at the base of the rings so they don't come apart/out.

 

[rover]

Hey, your question just reminded me that I have one of those.

 

[back alley]

one of what?

 

[rover]

Unused OEM Leica strap.

 

[stormbytes]

Hey, your question just reminded me that I have one of those.

Hah! Good answer! 🙂

** They should probably add a "strap folding instructions" page to the user manual. That way, after you've given the crap err... strap its 15-minutes of fame you'd know how to fold it neatly back up into the plastic baggie for when its ready to move onto the next 'new' RFF member 🙂

 

[Tim Gray]

Yes, I do.

 

[canetsbe]

I do as well, it's no big deal. Not the nicest but it's fine and very sturdy.

 

[sazerac]

Yep. I've been using since I bought my camera in 2004. I think it works pretty well bandolier style for carrying or wrapped around my wrist while shooting.

 

[FrankS]

I don't use mine.

 

[Particular]

I use it. I find it better than most straps. I once had a fancy leather strap that only survived for a couple of years. These are a lot more durable.
I even used it on my R-D1 because the epson strap started looking ratty after a year or so. I am not crazy about the grippy side of the rubber, which I tend to flip upwards when I am using it in summer or under a coat. I find it can be a bit rough for my delicate shoulders. I don't mind the plastic cover on the rings. It falls right between my fore and middle finger when I hold the camera.
I have made my own strap, which is nylon cut to a custom length, with no hardware. As an adjustable strap I think the Leica ones are not bad. I would hate one of those neoprene straps that dslr's come with.

 

[bbrovold]

Yep, I actually like the Leica strap and bought another for my M4-2 which came with a cracked leather strap.

 

[jordan.dickinson]

I like mine as well, and it doesn't cost an extra $100 like some of the A&A straps.

 

[BTMarcais]

I actually like the way it attaches. What I hate is the plastic/rubber/whatever pad in the middle of the strap. I wish it was soft and flexible all the way around.
So, no, I don't use mine. I have one of the basic A&A cloth straps- great for wrapping around the wrist.

-Brian

 

[stormbytes]

Hah! Its funny how varied people's feelings can be on something so trivial.

As for neoprene, I'm purchasing my second strap from a chinese seller on eBay. I had originally bought it for my Nikon body, and at $2.68 + free s/h it was a no-brainer. When I received it I was pleasantly surprised to find it well made, with just enough neoprene to fit around my neck and nice thin pliable leads.

So back to eBay I went!

** edit:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/27067430184...NX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649#ht_2510wt_981

 

[Michiel Fokkema]

Yes I do. (just yes was too short)

 

[rodinal]

Yes, I use them too.
The fanciest of my Leicas (M6 Einstück) got the Leica wide leather strap (14455, the new version with plastic studs), very comfortable indeed.

 

[Paulbe]

Yes--I use mine, too.
You'll find that is it well designed for the Leica, in that the "hard plastic things" really keep the strap secure and away from the sides of the camera.
They work well even with a heavy lens attached. Looks like someone at Leica actually paid attention to the design!
Paul

 

[Particular]

Hah! Its funny how varied people's feelings can be on something so trivial.

Straps, like anything that touches the skin, are really personal. That ebay strap would not really do it for me.

 

[sepiareverb]

Gah no! I'm a Domke strapper.

There is tho a loyal following for the oEM strap, I've sold every one I've ever gotten quite easily and quickly. Thank you to those who love the Leica strap!

 

[Calzone]

I like mine a lot. I also figured out that by sewing the right side together in the right spot it becomes dual function as a neck or wrist strap.

Most of the time I carry my camera hidden on my side BTW so that its ready to shoot.

Cal