Re: [Leica] tripod Base to protect M Body

["DPR" <rchdp@worldnet.att.net>]

> what do you do to keep the damage/wear to the bottom plate of your
M-bodies
> to a minimum.  Do you tape over the bottom plate? Kim Sherman
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> Kim,
> 
> You can use a thin rubber washer available in hardware stores and
plumbing
> supply houses to protect the M, or you can do what I did. I believe I may
> have mentioned this item before on LUG. I made a base out of wood which
> incorporates both knob for fastening the base to the camera and centered
in
> the wood base, I recessed a bushing for the tripod thread. The wood base
> requires woodworking because it must be shaped to conform to the M form.
> Then, of course, drilling is required. The metal threaded components can
be
> bought in any photo store. They're just the usual tripod fasteners with
1/4"
> external threads on one side and 1/4" recessed threads on the other. 
> 
> This wood base not only prevents scarring the M, but also centers it. And
it
> weighs practically nothing. 

Someone, Leica perhaps, makes a grip adapter for the M which provides a
better gripping surface, protects a portion (about 2/3) of the bottom
plate, and centers the tripod socket.  It leaves the bottom latch
uncovered.  Sells for about $90 retail.

Dave