[Leica] M5 battery question

[john.o.newell at comcast.net (J. Newell)]

Physical size is unchanged: you want a 625-type cell.  Be advised, however, 
that there are two chemistries available.  Most common, but not the best 
choice, is an alkaline cell.  These can be found at places like Radio Shack. 
 The Varta mentioned in another post is, I believe, an alkaline cell.  Much 
better is a silver oxide cell.  These are harder to find, but worth looking 
for.  You will probably have to order one by phone/mail/web.  The reason the 
silver oxide is much better is that its discharge curve - which is the 
output voltage over time/use - is much, much "flatter" than alkaline cells.  
This is potentially important because the meter reading will change as the 
battery voltage falls, resulting in accuracy problems.  The original mercury 
cells maintained the same voltage almost until dead.  The silver oxide cells 
are pretty good in that regard, but the alkaline cells are not.  

You can use alkalines in a pinch.  You can use them in when not pinched, but 
be prepared to throw them out often, and for possible metering problems.  
The shelf life of silver oxide cells is very long.  Order a bunch and be 
happy!

BTW, enjoy the M5.  Bigfoot is a great camera.

John Newell
-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: Harrison McClary <lists@mcclary.net> 

> If an M5 has been "fixed" to take current batteries, which battery do 
> you use? 
> 
> TIA 
> > 
> 
>