When I reviewed the T back in 2014 I complained about the rubberised strap which I found uncomfortable and a bit wayward: Putting the camera and strap back into a Billingham was like trying to squeeze a child’s toy springy snake into a small hole. The ingenious lugs on the T are a good idea in principle but not when they restrict you to using the supplied strap, especially when it is so awful (at least in my opinion).
The solution was always there—a replacement lug with an eyelet so that all straps with split-rings can be used. It took some time for Leica to agree. Fortunately, a lug kit is now on sale at the Leica Mayfair and City stores at a cost of £30. One good thing about the T’s lug system is that you need fit only one if your choice is to use a wrist strap. That leaves the opposite end of the camera smooth and lug free.
A similar set of replacement lugs is manufactured by Tim Isaac of Match Technical in the USA. This product is available in London from Red Dot Cameras and costs £33 (currently on special offer at £23).
If I owned a T a set of these lugs would be a definite buy. At last I would be able to use my favourite straps and, I feel sure, the experience would transform the handling of the camera. Another thought: If you are feeling flush you can have a set of lugs for all your favourite straps so swapping them is a simple matter. Or, for that matter, one set will service two wrist straps.
Hi To all. Luigi here from Roma, Italy. I made, too, my own SS "Pins" for the Leica T, since his introduction ! I made them mostly for my cases and strap for this (at the time) NEW, cute Leica camera. Ciao, Luigi
Thanks for this additional information which I am sure readers will fine useful. Please do let me know of any future introductions so I am fully in the picture.
The Match set are now on sale from RDC @ £23
Thanks Brian, I’ve amended the article.