Torn between M4-P and M4-2

[Daniel Schutte]

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Apologies if there are similar threads to this one - I haven't been able to find answers to my questions specifically.

I recently sold my M3 since I'm looking for a body that accommodates wider lenses and has a hotshoe.

I don't need a built in meter and am on a budget, so I wouldn't consider the M6. I also find the M5 too bulky, so this leaves the M4-2 and M4-P.

I will mainly be shooting 28mm and 35mm lenses, so the M4-P seems ideal since it provides framelines for both. My first question is therefore whether the extra cost is warranted for 28mm framelines, or if I should opt for an M4-2 and use the entire viewfinder to approximate the 28mm focal length.

Also, since there are few "user condition" examples of both models available online, I'm wondering how reliable the hotshoe is on these cameras - I use flash a lot and problems in this department would be a total dealbreaker for me. Would it make a tangible difference to opt for a late M4-P, or is it safe to assume that the hotshoe will function well in most cases regardless of model or year?

My instincts tell me the M4-P is the ideal camera, but since there are a few M4-2's available for very attractive prices, I'm hoping someone can convince me otherwise!

Edited January 25, 2022 by Daniel Schutte

[madNbad]

Any of the .72 viewfinders can be used with a 28 without the need for additional framelines. If you look at any M camera with 28 mm framelines you will see all they do is outline the edges of the viewfinder window. I've used a 28 with a M2, had good results and never felt the need for an accessory finder. If you find a nice M4-2, get it and use it. 

[250swb]

There are compromises made in using a Leica M that choosing not to have a 28mm frame, when you intend to use a 28mm lens, could be seen as only adding one more compromise of your own so what the heck. I think it's a compromise too many, unless you are the guy that would buy a three legged race horse in the hope of finding a race for other three legged race horses.  

Edited January 25, 2022 by 250swb

[a.noctilux]

Each one is fine.

They never needed repair/CLA, incredible

as other well established Wetzlar made M2/M3/M4 that I use needed once in a while going for reshape ( mandatory & expensive ! )

 

I use them along for many years without being able to choose one.

Still have them but use far less than before.

M4-2 has the purest frames same as M4, good for 35/50mm users. I used on it 28mm as well with/without aux. finder depending on my mood.

M4-P framelines are less accurate on 35/50, but in M use accuracy is off anyway.

 

Each one is a good M and the ugliest on my M is the M4-2 maybe it is the work horse ...always on work when I used them

 

Edited January 25, 2022 by a.noctilux

[Chamois 06]

Good evening, a few years ago I sold my M2 and I regret it....

I then exchanged my M3 for a M 4-2 from 1980 and since then I love the couple we form...

It's by trying that we choose....

[sandro]

Apart from the viewfinder the differences between M4-2 and M4-P are not that important. Since you say you're on a budget, I'd choose the camera that appeals to you most. You can't go wrong with either one.

Lex

[Huss]

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The M4-P has more frame lines in the vf, and so is messier to view.  The M4-2 has a much cleaner vf, just like the M4.

I have the M4-2, and love the VF.  But I have other cameras that I shoot with 28mm lenses!  And if I wanted to primarily use 28, then I'd get the M4-P

[Graham (G4FUJ)]

Just go for the camera in best condition for the price you can afford.  A recent CLA may prove advantageous.

[Jacobjuul]

For what it's worth, on my m2 or m3, I use the SLOOZ finder. It's much better than the viewfinder anyway.