Leica M/M-P ‘Protector’ review

While I typically prefer to use cameras without cases or half cases, believing that a camera should be unencumbered, the sleek profile of the Leica M camera does require a bit more to hold onto securely. The grips appeal, but the half case also offers a lot of protection to the body.

The black half case or ‘Protector’, as Leica calls it, appears to be no longer available, leaving only the brown in some stores. It’s described as ‘cognac’ coloured – a little too light for my liking (and a little lighter than pictured, I would say). It’s not as discreet, but, in fairness, out on the street, as it were, no one gives it a second glance. On the base, there’s a stamped Leica roundel, but it’s very low-key and, anyway, it’s not visible from the front.

With precise stitching and a soft velvety lining, the Leica M/M-P ‘Protector’ half-case is superbly made. It’s quite rigid and it fits the Leica M-P quite tightly, and without the need for a metal screw and plate in the base, it’s quite light in weight. It’s held in place with two leather snap-down collars, which fit over the strap lugs. They’re slightly recessed, so the button snaps sit quite flush around the lugs.

This means the case is quick and easy to remove, which you’ll need to do when replacing the battery or you need to retrieve the memory card, as the camera’s base plate must be left in place. That also means you can’t attach the camera with its case to a tripod, but this isn’t an issue for me, as I use the hugely versatile Arca-Swiss L-Bracket anyway. I wouldn’t want to attach the camera via a 1/4 screw in the base of the half case to a tripod – that idea was discarded in the late 70s.

At the rear, the case fits closely around the buttons, screen, and control pad, and I’m pleased to say there isn’t a high ‘lip’ at the front under the lens. Indeed, at 11-12mm, it seems little higher than those cases where you can remove the baseplate.

The leather looks and feels sublime; it’s not oily at all, and the surface provides a very secure grip. One further benefit is a well-positioned grip at the front. Although narrow, it’s firm, and the surface offers enough purchase for the fingertips to grip hold of. While that sounds insubstantial, it’s very much appreciated.

Overall, the case greatly improves the handling experience while also, of course, adding protection from life’s knocks and bumps. With no downsides thus far encountered, if you’re looking for a case for your Leica, then don’t dismiss the Leica-branded ones; they’re outstanding.

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