Just got my first Leica...how do you protect these things?!

[breathstealer]

I keep my RD-1 in a Domke wrap if I'm not using a camera bag. It's a flat piece of padding that has velcro fasteners such that it can be folded into an envelope of sorts, just big enough for the camera and a lens. But that's just between shooting locations - if I'm actually using it, there's no need for any protective gear.

 

[eleskin]

They have protectors for I phones and DSLR's, why none for M's?

They have protectors for I phones and DSLR's, why none for M's?

I am wondering why they have all of these clever protectors for I Phones, Nikons, Canons (rubberized shells, etc,,,) and yet I see nothing for any M camera? Given these things are not cheap (an I phone is nothing in terms of cost when you consider the M9 is a cool 7K!!!!) I would like to see a ruberized camera armor for the various M cameras. Why is there nothing?

I use black electrical tape built up in a tough shell and the I-Phone plastic screen protectors. Ugly as hell (great theft protection) but it works!!!!

 

[Makten]

I use one of these when I pack the camera in a non-camera bag:

http://www.lenscoat.com/bodybagsuptmsup-p-468.html

The M8 with a lens attached fits in it, and while it isn't tight at all, it protects the camera from everything else in the bag.

 

[mackigator]

Protect it by using it.

It's not going to hold value in the same way that the older film M's have, so "protection" for this camera (IMHO) just means doing anything smart to try and avoid repair bills.

 

[GrahamWelland]

I would also love to hear any general tips for protecting your Ms--while shooting, walking, traveling, anything--or, well, anything at all that a newcomer should know.

BTW, I guess a Luigi case might be in order, but I'm not sure I can shell out for one right now. Any other similar options available?

Whilst all the bravado about 'just use it', 'don't worry about scratches/wear' etc are fine, the truth is that if you want some protection against dings and general real world use you really should consider something like the Luigi case. Unless I'm using a tripod, I keep mine in a Luigi half case and it provides excellent protection against dings and allows me to carry the camera around without much worry about bumping it. It doesn't protect the top plate but then again nothing else does (unless you want to look like your grandfather with a never-ready case). There are some alternatives out there, including some cheaper rip offs on eBay, but the original is wonderfully made and complements the camera, plus providing some extra grip too. They age well too so don't be concerned about buying new vs used.

 

[ROOOO]

Thanks for all the replies! I like the idea of Domke wrap for when I keep the camera in my messenger bag (which has essentially no padding), but I feel it might become annoying to wrap it up every time I put it in the bag. I'm thinking a Domke insert might be the better way to go there. I'll also keep my eyes open for a reasonably priced half-case. If I find that I absolutely love shooting with the M8 and will be keeping it for a while (and I don't mind the half-case), I'll look into getting one of Luigi's cases. I figure I'll also probably pick up a rocket blower soon.

Anyhow, keep the suggestions coming!