S2 handgrip

[Paratom]

Tom, latest thoughts on the grip ?

Also, I note that there are two grips for the S. Can anyone explain the difference, please ?

I still think that the S2/S with grip sits more sturdy in the hand than without grip.
However my S-"approach" has been to bring it as much as possible even for casual shooting. Therefore a use a relativly small backpack which takes the S+lens + 1 additional lens. But I cant fit the S with grip in this bag.
Also I find the S2-size without grip draws allready enough attraction.
Also I use 35 and 70mm much more often than 120 and 180, a I find for the 35 and 70 I can grip the S comfortable without grip.
These are the reason why I allmost never use the grip.
Anybody wants to buy a Leica S2 grip, like new (in Germany)?
I dont know if there are 2 versions, I only know the one I have.
Tom

 

[baudolino]

I use the grip almost all the time when shooting handheld. Makes the camera more secure in my hands and I think it helps me handhold at slightly slower speeds than the bare body (irrespective of orientation), especially with the 120mm lens which is my favourite. I have sometimes left it at home when I was trying to travel light but then I concluded that the M9 is the camera for traveling light, not the S2. So now I take the grip along even if I take just one or two lenses with the body, unless I take the tripod (then I take the L-plate and leave the grip at home). I also sometimes use a rucksack (Lowepro Photo Sport 200) with a smaller compartment that does not take the S2 with the grip on; I just throw the grip in the unpadded main compartment, wrapped in a spare skiing sock for protection - but then I am not lazy and actually put it on when shooting. The S2 is uncompromising, with every little bit of misfocus or camera shake immediately visible and ruining the image, so I try to do my best to avoid both. Regards, Martin