Rapid Winder Questions

[PATB]

As a left eyed shooter, I am really tempted to get a rapidwinder. I do not need one all the time, but when I do, it is a pain to keep moving the camera away from my face just to wind. I also want a centered tripod socket. Some questions:

1) How heavy is the rapidwinder compared to the leicavit in actual use? I have weak wrists from a hand condition and try to minize the weight of the camera.
2) Where can I get another "petal" to use on the rapid winder? I do not want to move the one from my MP as I do not need the rapidwinder all the time. For most usage, I need the regular baseplate.

Thanks much.

 

[Damaso]

Not much heavier (a few grams) if I recall the spec correctly. You should be able to pick up another petal on eBay or maybe even from Tom himself! It is well worth the investment, I just picked up my second one...

 

[Tom A]

The Rapidwinder weighs 125 grams (about 4 ounces). The weight is offset by the fact that it adds 1/2 inch to the height of the camera and I find that that improves the grip.
You dont need the petal or "roller" - I use my winders without it. If you feel that you need one I think Leica USA have them. Dont know how much they charge for them though.

 

[BillBingham2]

PATB,

I used them for several years and they additional weight is almost nothing. The price of the tulip is between 15 and 30 USD as I remember. I got one from DAG but never installed it on my second winder. RapidWinders are IMHO the single most must buy accessory for every Leica M, several Leica LTM and some day Nikon S user.

B2 (;->

 

[Nokton48]

I bought a chrome M2 Rapidwinder directly from TomA, and I will never part with it!

The extra weight is nothing. Balance and overall handling are also improved. Build quality is -better- than the camera itself, and that is saying something.

I sold-off my M2 bottom plate. No reason to keep it.