Re: [Leica] Leica-M Handgrip & RRS Quick Releases

["Glenn Wm. Thrall" <gthrall@ibm.net>]

Art Searle wrote:
> 
(SNIP!)

> 2) Leica M Handgrip
> 
> I wonder why no one has thought to combine the Leica M Handgrip with a quick
> release.  Are any of the standard quick releases close to the dimensions of
> the handgrip?   Who else thinks a combined handgrip/quick release would be a
> useful accessory?


I use the metal M-GRIP by GMP Products (about $65 or so from Don
Chatterton) on an M6. The chrome color blends in well with both the
chrome and titanium finish.

Also, the tripod hole is in the center of the M-Grip. Less wear and tear
on the bottom plate of the M6. The quick release plate is screwed into
the center hole of the M-Grip.

An additional advantage, and the major reason why I purchased the
M-Grip, is protection of the bottom plate from torque (when mounted on a
tripod) which resets the frame counter. I can't tell you how many times
that "feature" ticked me off. With the grip, the bottom plate is
protected. No frame reset.

The Leica made product is similar, about $75 from Chatterton or
Tamarkin, similar price (I recall $85, new) at Lee-Mac Camera in
Pasadena when last I checked. The Leica grip appears to "bite" into the
camera leather or plastic making an indent. The GMP does not.

However, the Leica model says "Leica" and is black. Both models center
the tripod/quick release screw hole in the center of the camera.

I have seen the Leica M-Grip in Leica shops in Germany (Meister's in
Hamburg), however not the GMP model which is made in the United States.


Glenn

Glenn Thrall
mailto:gthrall@ibm.net