LTM VC 21mm Skopar vs. M-mount

[squirrel$$$bandit]

I used to have the LTM and regretfully sold it, before I got my hands on the R4A. Now of course I want it back. So I'm going to buy it again.

I'm inclined to get the LTM again, and sell the finder. It kind of seems like a no-brainer. But the M-mount version looks really, really nice. There's no handling difference so enormous to justify spending all that extra dough, is there? The glass, I understand, is identical. I already have an adapter.

 

[Al Kaplan]

I'm looking for a 21mm finder if you want to sell yours.

 

[back alley]

the newer lenses are better built it seems and look nicer as well.

that being so, i bought a used ltm cv15 and am quite happy.

joe

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

I'm looking for a 21mm finder if you want to sell yours.

If I go LTM, Al, I'll definitely sell you the finder! Let's see if anyone makes a compelling case for the M-mount...but I think LTM is the way to go. I would prefer the tab to the lever, but not by much.

 

[pphuang]

The optics are the same, so it invariably goes down to handling. The m-mount lenses tend to be a tad bigger (fatter) than the screw mount versions. This might be good or bad, depending on the size of your hands and fingers.

One other thing to consider - someday, you may want to try a screwmount body and will discover that they are loads of fun. You will then find yourself wishing that you had bought the screw mount versions in the first place. Since the screw mount versions are gradually being replaced by m mounts, they will become harder to find over time (and perhaps become more expensive). Get them while they are still relatively cheap and plentiful!

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

The optics are the same, so it invariably goes down to handling. The m-mount lenses tend to be a tad bigger (fatter) than the screw mount versions. This might be good or bad, depending on the size of your hands and fingers.

One other thing to consider - someday, you may want to try a screwmount body and will discover that they are loads of fun. You will then find yourself wishing that you had bought the screw mount versions in the first place. Since the screw mount versions are gradually being replaced by m mounts, they will become harder to find over time (and perhaps become more expensive). Get them while they are still relatively cheap and plentiful!

I already have two--the Canon 7 and IVSB! Which is another good argument for the LTM version, though this lens would look like a pimple on the Canon 7.

 

[pphuang]

I already have two--the Canon 7 and IVSB! Which is another good argument for the LTM version, though this lens would look like a pimple on the Canon 7.

Pimples are good!

If you really want a pimple, look at the 28/3.5, another lovely LTM lens that has been discontinued. I recently bought a Leica II, and this combination is heaven - I finally found my "pocket point-n-shoot." The 50/3.5 Elmar is even smaller, but fiddling with a collapsible has always been a love/hate relationship with me...

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

You know what? I went over to CQ to get the LTM and ended up buying the M. Not sure what happened. I think I figured, if the glass is equal, what matters is handling, and I prefer the Summicron-style focus tab and larger size.

I'm very excited. My best single roll ever was shot on the LTM 21. I never should have sold it.

 

[pphuang]

You know what? I went over to CQ to get the LTM and ended up buying the M. Not sure what happened. I think I figured, if the glass is equal, what matters is handling, and I prefer the Summicron-style focus tab and larger size.

Congrats on the purchase!

Some people, especially those with larger hands, find the smaller sized lenses too uncomfortable to use.

I'm very excited. My best single roll ever was shot on the LTM 21. I never should have sold it.

I cringe at how many times I have done this... :bang: