17/02/2026 6:06 am
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Hey everyone! I’ve finally bitten the bullet and started building out my M-mount kit with some Summicron glass. It took a long time to save up for these, and honestly, I’m a bit terrified of getting that first scratch or scuff on the front element while out shooting.
I’ve heard the endless debate about whether putting extra glass in front of such high-end optics is a 'sin,' but for my peace of mind—especially when shooting in busy street environments or windy coastal areas—I’d really like to find a high-quality protector. I’m specifically worried about losing that famous Leica micro-contrast or introducing unwanted flaring and ghosting.
I’ve been looking at the B+W XS-Pro Digital MRC2 filters and the Heliopan SH-PMC protectors, but I’ve also seen Leica’s own UVa II series. Is it worth paying the extra premium for the Leica-branded filters, or do the high-end third-party options perform just as well without affecting the color rendition? Also, does anyone have experience with how these fit under the standard lens hoods for E39 or E46 sizes?
For those of you who prioritize protection, which specific brand and model of filter have you found to be the most 'invisible' in terms of image quality?
4 Answers
11
17/02/2026 6:30 am
In my experience, you should definitely go with the Leica UVa II Filter E39 or the Leica UVa II Filter E46 for your Summicrons. I've been shooting M glass for over two decades now and tbh, I've seen it all. I totally get the paranoia about that first scratch!! Unfortunately, I've had issues with some third-party glass causing weird "ghost" reflections when shooting at night. Even high-end stuff like the Heliopan 39mm Protection Filter SH-PMC is technically great, but honestly, it’s not as good as expected when it comes to cleaning—the coating feels "sticky" compared to Leica's own stuff. * Leica UVa II Filter E39 - Gold standard. Fits perfectly under every hood without binding.
* B+W 39mm XS-Pro Digital MRC2 010 UV Protection Filter - Solid runner-up, but the frame is a bit thicker and can cause issues with some clip-on hoods. I used to try saving money here, but after seeing flare ruin a shot on a $4k lens, I just stick to the Leica brand now. They maintain that micro-contrast way better than anything else I've tried. gl with the new glass!
11
17/02/2026 6:50 am
Seconding the recommendation above. tbh Leica filters are perfect but the Hoya 39mm HD3 UV Filter is a better value. Leica = official look, Hoya = tougher glass/easier cleaning. I've used 'em for years and they dont mess with micro-contrast at all. Plus they're slim enough for E39 hoods... definitely the best cost-conscious choice for street shooting!! peace
2
17/02/2026 6:06 am
oh man, congrats!! realy amazing glass. In my experience it realy depends: r u shooting digital or film? and which specific summicrons did u grab? kinda affects the choice big time tho... cheers!
1
27/02/2026 12:11 pm
Regarding what #3 said about "Seconding the recommendation above. tbh Leica filters are..."
- I definitely agree on prioritizing quality, but I have a slightly different take on which specific ones offer the best peace of mind. Over the years, I've found that standard glass filters can actually be a liability because they shatter into sharp shards that scratch the coating anyway if they take a hard hit.
- If you want real protection, check out the Sigma WR Ceramic Protector 39mm. It is made of a glass-ceramic material thats way tougher than standard UV glass. I use these on my expensive glass because they dont just protect from dust, they actually absorb impact way better.
- Another very reliable one is the Breakthrough Photography 46mm X4 UV Filter. The brass frame is less likely to get stuck on your lens threads than aluminum ones, which is a huge deal if you ever need to swap them in the field. Brass on brass is always smoother. I havent seen any ghosting with these, even shooting into the sun. Just make sure the rim is thin enough so your E39 or E46 hood still clicks into place properly... some filters have a slightly wider outer ring that messes with the Leica hood fit, but these two usually play nice.
