Probably a stupid question. Just curious,if I cock the shutter and don't take a picture should I release the shutter before putting the camera away. If I can, how long can it be cocked?

-- Gerald Widen (gerald@sfa1.com), March 02, 2001

Answers

Leica themselves say it does not matter. There is virtually no difference between the tension of the shutter springs cocked or not. Having said that, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU REGULARLY EXERCISE EVERY CONTROL AND SHUTTER SPEED ON ANY MECHANICAL LEICA (especially the slow shutter speeds). If you leave your camera unused for long periods, there is a very good chance that the lubricant will separate and things start to gum up. Leica recommends that at least every three months, everything be used though its entire range.

Cheers,

-- John Collier (jbcollier@home.com), March 02, 2001.

Thanks John,

I have always tried to "exersize" my Leicas (and Nikons) periodically going through the entire range, but, have always wondered how many times to 'click' each shutter speed. Any advise?

-- Steve LeHuray (icommag@toad.net), March 02, 2001.

Thanks for the replies,I kind of thought it was Ok to keep the shutter cocked but have heard through the years it wasn't. I guess my nervous habit of clicking the shutter at different speeds is a good thing.

-- Gerald Widen (gerald@sfa1.com), March 02, 2001.

Steve,

I do not think it matters much. I fire twice at each speed but it probably just a nervous tick.

Cheers,

-- John Collier (jbcollier@home.com), March 02, 2001.