having another go at my iskra

[Keith]

Very stiff focus is common on these Iskras ... I fixed mine by marginally backing off the four slot head screws that hold the front of the bellows in place. If they're a fraction too tight they appear to distort the metal plate behind the focussing ring binding the whole thing up somewhat. Also a drop of very light machine oil either side of this ring makes a difference ... mine started off so tight it was hurting my fingers but now is free and smooth! 🙂

 

[Andrew Howes]

I did a bit more on my darling this weekend.
The focus was binding up a bit like you guys mentioned and after pulling the focus apart, you can actually see the screws from the bellows coming through, so I backed them off and put some action wax (a light grease for gun actions) in there and it is as smooth as butter.
I also got it to focus to infinity (well almost, it seems a tad shy, but f5.6 would take care of that if I ever felt the need for infinity focus) and the focus scale seems to be about right now.
After readjusting the RF it will be about right except for the lack of cable release ability and B.
Starting to like it more now.
Dave, I am glad to hear you got a good one, I am sure you will enjoy it.