Leica M rangefinder

D

Dan95

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I've read that some have mis-aligned their RFs when they drop their bags. And also IIRC, a minor thump can mis-align the RF.

Are they really that fragile ?
 
It should not be so.. Since 1963, I probably re-aligned my M-cameras (M2, M3 and M4) not more than 5 or 6 times (some none, some maybe once). As I remember each case was nothing more than a fine vertical adjustment.
 
a hard knock to the left side of the camera can do it - for example if the camera falls off a table directly onto the left side. but it's not guaranteed to go out of alignment either, just possible.

i doubt that any leica in good condition would go out of alignment from a knock while in its camera bag.

remember people have used these cameras in war zones for decades - they're not THAT fragile
 
I used to worry about knocking out of alignment, but the more I use range finders, the more I realise that they are actually a lot more solid than I gave them credit for.

Also, unless you're shooting fast lenses, you can afford a little inaccuracy. The only time I have had an issue with alignment was the Nokton 50mm 1.1, but I think that was more back focus with the lens, not my camera. I've also shot a 35mm Nokton 1.4, and Summarit 50mm 1.5, both of which focused perfectly, and I've never had to adjust the camera.
 
I've dropped my M6 few times on the floor, once on hard paving, nothing happened.

I then fell on my back slipping on ice, camera in backpack, the result being a cracked viewfinder and knocked off rangefinder. £150 later is again like new.

Choose the story you prefer. :p
 
Dan95 said:
Are they really that fragile ?
Click to expand...
No, they are not exactly fragile. Over time the rangefinder may go out of alignment, but even a very hard knock on the camera does not guarantee it. I have a broken baseplate for my M8 to prove my point.
 
i have a different experience...my m7 (0.58 VF) always need an rf alignment at least once a year when I use it very oft. I'm careful not to drop it or slam but this is my experience. Never had similar problem with my Bessa R which I use in the same way. Maybe the M/ was assembled on friday afternoon...
robert
PS: to be clear it s a small out of alignment and the camera could be used anyway, specially with a wide lens.
 
I've never dropped a Leica.

Just that everytime I set down my bag, I get a little paranoid and check the RF.
 
Lss said:
No, they are not exactly fragile. Over time the rangefinder may go out of alignment, but even a very hard knock on the camera does not guarantee it. I have a broken baseplate for my M8 to prove my point.
Click to expand...

Baseplate on my M8 also broke, the clip that is. Was on a tripod, then snapped out of the blue ( due to stress ).
 
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