Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/01/13
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Guy Bennett asks: > Bill, > > I'm curious about your last statement - if the Bessa R feels "cheap and > flimsy" why do you prefer it over the M? In the preceding paragraph, you > mention that the rangefinder of the Bessa R is superior to that of the M. > Would you elaborate on that and let us know why the M is playing second > fiddle to the Bessa R, in your case. Guy, I have given this a lot of thought. I think that it is because I have carried and used M-Leicas since 1966 and 35mm cameras that do not load from the bottom but rather use a hinged back feel flimsy to me. Also, I am use to metal camera backs. The Cosina is using a carbonate plastic (I think). As I think about it, that makes sense if you have to have a hinged back. As to the rangefinder, it has not flared on me in situations that the M6 would have. The rangefinder is accurate. The metering system is very similar to the M6 (coverage is slightly different but in real use does not make any apparent difference). The only thing (other than screw mounts) I had to get used to was the location of the shutter release. I carry a camera with me all of the time which shares space in a soft-sided brief case with cd-roms, files, and whatever I need for the office. For whatever reason (probably value), I don't feel comfortable carrying an M camera in my brief case or stuck in my jacket pocket. I should also add that I am a sick Leica person with an M3, M6hm, R6, R7 and assorted lenses, a Viso system and an old Focomat. I am impervious to flames. Regards, Bill Larsen from California's Heartland