Base10 bought the Mamiya 7 150mm long lens and understands now why rangefinders aren't meant for long lenses. While it is certainly usable, it is fairly hard to focus. I wanted to round out my kit with the 50mm, but was told they were out of stock. As far as the 150mm goes, it looks like a great piece of optics. My only complaint is that Mamiya ships this with a cheesy plastic lens shade. What's the point? You have a tack sharp lens (if the 80mm is any comparison) but you bundle it with a cheap bit of plastic?

The length of the lens and the difficulty focusing underscore this issue in the 35mm realm. Only the Leica M3 can accurately focus a 135mm lens or even a Noctilux wide open. The Bessa is limited to about a 90mm lens (except maybe the Bessa-T). This is fine. Save your SLR gear for wildlife and sports where long lenses are necessary. Interesting stuff. Rangefinders are so different.

- posted by Base10 @ 11:16 AM