Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/02/28

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Subject: [Leica] Re: Shaking a 21
From: william lawlor <wvl@infinex.com>
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001 12:27:47 -0800
References: <200102281751.JAA25270@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us>

Now why would there be a difference in the effects of camera shake between
symmetrical and retrofocus designs of the same focal length? It does not
make sense to me but that is hardly surprising as I was repeatedly dropped
on my head in my youth and thus am unable to understand the simplest of
concepts (such as the point of the UV filter thread for instance). Please
shed some light into the great void that is my brain.
....

Here's a theory that might explain the statement.

When aiming a rifle with "iron sights" the longer the distance 
between the front and rear sights the more sensitive and accurate 
will be the aim. With a handgun, however, the sights are close 
together and accurate aim is much more difficult. The 21 lens is said 
to have the diaphram very close to the film plane. That might result 
in less relative motion at the film plane the same as there would be 
less relative motion (but reduced aiming sensitivity) with a handgun.

Don't shoot me if I'm wrong.

Bill Lawlor