Silly question

[galleryg]

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I was wondering if someone might be able to answer a question for me. I would like to know what the purpose is for the round metal stub on the left side bottom (opposite of the lug for attaching the bottom cover) of the M3 camera. For me it seems to serve no purpose and I was thinking of possibly putting a camera strap lug in its' place so that the camera could be carried vertically like the M5. Does anyone know if this has been done before or if it is at all possible without it being a permanent modification? Inquiring minds want to know...Thanks in advance to anyone who can shed light on this for me.

[Michael Hiles]

Not a silly question, IMO.

 

I have a flash bracket (made in the 50s) that hooks onto the lug and screws into the tripod socket. I don't have it in front of me, but I think that is how it works. There may be other accessories that require the lug and tripod screw hole for the purpose of attaching to the bottom of the camera.

 

I think there have been pictures of the flash bracket on this forum.

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[Robert J]

There was also the Benser baseplate that hooked on this stud and screwed into the tripod socket.The baseplate had 2 lensmounts attached,which enabled you to carry 2 accessory lenses.

[Michael Geschlecht]

Hello galleryg,

 

The stud on either side of the bottom of the camera was for alignment when attaching the M3 to various copying, etc devices.

 

In the past there were more & different accesories & alternative uses for M's than are common today.

 

Best Regards,

 

Michael