Focusing with Canonet QL17

[initnull]

Hey,

i just got my first rangefinder, the Canon Canonet QL17. I bought it because of the often heard comments praising the focus mechanism in rangefinder cameras - but, for me, it's kind of difficult to focus with the QL17 because of the small 'split' area.

My Question: Is the focusing area of all rangefinders that small (especially with Leicas M/Voigtländer Bessa cameras)?

[Vincenzo Maielli]

I have a Canonet G-III QL17 and i find the focusing patch simple to use, not too small indeed. In the Leica M cameras, the rangefinder patch is better, as contrast and precision, but only slightly larger than Canonets. I simply think you need a little bit more practice.
Ciao.
Vincenzo

[WetMogwai]

I have the original Canonet. It had the nicest viewfinder I've ever used on an RF camera. My main RF camera now is the Bessa R. The split area is a nice size, but it can be a little dim. In low light, it gets to be useless and I have to guess the focal distance.

If you're debating getting a Bessa or a Leica, definitely go with the Leica if cost is no concern and you prefer build quality to a large feature set. I'd love to have an M3, though my understanding of Leicas is that it had the best viewfinder they ever built and everything since is a poor copy. I went with the Bessa R because it has a feature set better than the M3 but for a small fraction of the price. It just isn't built as well.

[Vilk]

Is the focusing area of all rangefinders that small (especially with Leicas M/Voigtländer Bessa cameras)?

in comparison to M3, QL17's patch is... ummm... is not

and yet, it's adequate somehow. they both do the job. don't measure, shoot

[initnull]

Thank you! I just was curious about it! Nearly got my first roll of bw film finished with it