Nomenclature question...

[fishtek]

Is "L39" and "M39" the same? I've found the terms used interchangeably as I've poked around for information, and need to know if I'm gonna have to flip my incoming 85/2. I know there's M/bayonet, LTM (Leica Thread Mount), LSM (Same as LTM), but what about L39/M39?

Can ya tell I'm new to lens-swappable RF's?

Thanks!
Don

 

[fishtek]

No pix...haven't received the lens yet. Guess I'll just have to rely on "empirical observation"....I'll try it when it shows up, and either keep it (if all else is fine), or move it on...

Thanks!
Don

 

[Dougg]

Best to clarify in any situation that might be questionable. The terminology can sometimes be ambiguous without adequate context. M42 Pentax thread mount is never ambiguous, and I suspect that putting an M before 39 at least hints at the Soviet use of 39mm thread for SLRs where clearly the body film-to-lens flange distance is greater than in a Leica thread (or FED, Zorkii) body.

 

[varjag]

M39 is metric specification of the tread; LTM/LSM/L39 specifically indicates Leica mount with its working distance and perhaps in most cases rangefinder coupling.

 

[vicmortelmans]

And then you're not sure if they have the same pitch!

Groeten,

Vic