What are the essential accessories for a new Leica M11?

Question

I finally pulled the trigger on a silver M11 and honestly Im a bit annoyed that for nearly nine thousand dollars this thing feels so slippery in the hand. Im terrified Im gonna drop it while walking around Seattle and the thought of it hitting the pavement is actually making me lose sleep lol. I need to get this sorted before I take it out for real street work next week because right now it just feels like an expensive paperweight I cant grip properly.

Basically I need stuff that makes it feel secure and keeps it from getting beat up immediately. Here is what Im looking for:

a thumb grip or a regular grip that doesnt make it look like a chunky dslr

a strap that is actually comfortable but doesnt have metal rings that scratch the finish

some kind of screen protector because I already see a tiny smudge and its driving me crazy

maybe a spare battery but god they are like 170 bucks now?

Im not trying to spend another two grand on leather cases and fancy brass bits but I want the basics that actually work. Is the official Leica handgrip worth it or should I look at the third party stuff like Match Technical? I really want something that feels solid. What are you guys actually using on yours everyday?

Ophelia Storm · Accepted Answer

> I need stuff that makes it feel secure and keeps it from getting beat up immediately. To add to the point above: in my experience, you dont need the Leica brand for every accessory to get results. I have used the SmallRig L-Shape Grip for Leica M11 3814 for months; it provides a secure ledge and integrated Arca-Swiss support without much bulk. The Peak Design Leash Camera Strap Black L-BL-3 uses plastic anchors to prevent finish scratches, and the Expert Shield Glass Screen Protector for Leica M11 offers identical protection to official glass for less.

DapperDawn · Answer

Jumping in here because I went through this exact same panic when I got my silver M11 last summer! That trip to Chicago had me clutching it like my life depended on it, seriously... the finish is gorgeous but it's basically a wet bar of soap. Like someone mentioned, you really need to feel secure. The Haoge HG-M11 Hand Grip for Leica M11 was my choice and honestly it's a total game changer. It adds just enough meat to the side without making it look like a bulky beast, and it's got a built-in Arca-Swiss plate which is fantastic if you ever use a tripod. For the strap, Hyperion Camera Straps Acrylic Cord is my absolute favorite. They use these little rubber O-rings instead of metal bits, so no scratches on that beautiful silver finish, and they're crazy affordable for how stylish they look. Regarding that screen smudge anxiety, dont overpay and just grab the ULBTER 9H Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Leica M11 3-pack. It’s super cheap and fits perfectly. Tbh you cant even tell it's on there. Also, if you want more ideas, check out the Leica M section on the Fred Miranda forums. People there share the most incredible niche accessory finds that arent the typical overpriced official gear. It saved me so much money when I was building out my street kit!

sandra_morgan653 · Answer

Listen, I totally get the anxiety. My first week with the M11 was in a humid coastal town and that finish is slick. It is basically a bar of soap. The lack of a grip is a design choice but an ergonomic nightmare for street work. Testing the Leica Handgrip M11 Black 24025 showed that while it adds 110g, it integrates into the base and gives you a built in Arca-Swiss plate. Great for technical setups. If you want something less bulky tho, the Match Technical Thumbs Up EP-MX is solid brass and uses a leaf spring to stay tight in the hot shoe. It basically shifts the center of gravity into your palm so you dont feel like it is sliding out of your hand. Highly recommend. For the strap, check out the Artisan and Artist Silk Cord Strap ACAM-301N. It uses leather lug protectors so no metal rings ever touch that silver finish. The Leica Screen Protector M11 18511 has 9H hardness which is standard for preventing scratches from jacket buttons or zippers. Regarding the power, the Leica BP-SCL7 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery is 1800mAh which is a massive 64 percent increase over the old M10 cells... you might actually get through a full day without a spare unless you use the EVF constantly. The technical efficiency on this sensor is wild. TL;DR: Get the Match Technical thumb grip for stability without the bulk, the Artisan and Artist silk strap to avoid scratches, and wait on the 170 dollar battery because the new 1800mAh capacity is quite efficient.