Some Comment on Leica M8 Protector Case

[barjohn]

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Thanks to a member of this forum I was able to obatin one of the Leica M8 protector 1/2 cases for the camera. I thought I would share my expereinces with it to date and solicit feedback from others so that a prospective buyer could decide whether it was for him or her.

 

When I first got the case I wondered if I had made a mistake. While it was light, it seemed stiff and dare I say ugly? I wasn't sure whether the grip bumps would be of any use or not. I snapped it on the camera and began using it with the case. Over time it has begun to soften in a very nice attractive way molding itself better to the camera (it stood out at first). The built in grips are prefectly placed to support your thumb on the back side and your second and third fingers on the front side. They form a natural resting place for each. This was a surprise to me. The base is a stiff piece that sems to offer protection for the bottom of the camera. The two snaps snap around the hanging strap hinges just perfectly.

 

I had really debated about the Luigi case but been unable to bring myself to pay $250 for one. I have no doubt that his cases are of better quality and materials. However, the Leica case had no snaps in the back or cover to remove or put back or leave dangling. It is quick and easy to remove it from the camera for film or battery replacement. While I don't have a Luigi case I have read here where they can be difficult to take off or put back on. All of the controls on the back or front are readily accessible and usable without removing the case or strap.

 

In conclsuion, I would highly recommend this case for protective purposes as it will shield the camera from unexpected jostles. Maybe a Luigi case would be better but is it $150 better is the question. Perhaps others can chime in on this case or the Luigi case. From a practical standpoint this case appears to be very good. Thinner would have been nicer but then it might not have been as easy to take off and put back on. I like not having anything that snaps on in the back as it would have added bulk without adding any real meaningful protection (I would have had it either dangling or off most of the time). The full built

[marknorton]

Glad you like it, John!