Sticky focus on summilux 28mm 1.4

[Derbyshire Man]

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I got one of these second hand 9/10 from a retailer, I've had it 2 months and realised why although I love the images I don't love using it. The focus is sticky meaning it stops and starts in a notchy way in both directions, it also feels like there is a tiny amount of backlash in the helicoid. 

Is this a known problem or am I super unlucky rather than just unlucky?

I've noticed the retailer and sent a video but I'm sure on here you know exactly what I mean.

Ta

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[darylgo]

Similar situation with my 28mm Summilux purchased from a Leica Store.  The effort to start movement of the focus ring made fine adjustments difficult and tedious.  I knew the issue and the lens had time left on it's original Leica warranty.  Everything else about the lens was excellent.  Near warranty expiration the store sent it to Leica New Jersey for service.  Several months later the returned lens was no better than sent with a note saying it is the best I could expect.  When New Jersey fails as has happened more than once a request for service in Wetzlar is best.  Wetzlar returned it butter smooth and the lens has been good since.  In it's sticky stiff state the lens would loosen a bit with use, when it sat it would revert back and there was the hope it would get smoother with several months, it didn't.    

[lifeandmylens]

I've had 3 copies of this lens.  2 of them were exactly as you're describing.  The third was sent to DAG with instructions to use lightweight grease.  It was marginally better.  It at least didn't stick, but was still stiff.  

[darlesch]

It’s tough. I think generally heavier lenses will have a harder time overcoming the initial friction to get the focus ring in motion. My used copy that I bought recently also had a rough focus ring action, much worse than your description. It was grating. I suspect it was stored and unused. It too now is at Leica NJ for repair and CLA. 

[TomB_tx]

Sounds like this design uses a floating element group. The helicoid complexity is why I avoid these lenses.