Cheap RF similar to Canon QL17 w/o merc batteries?

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I've recently been exploring the compact RF's from the 70's looking for a cheap pocket camera with some quality to it. Also want to try RF and don't want to carry my F3 everywhere.

My web research led me to look at the Canon QL17, Minolta 9, Yashica Electro GSW and others, but all take the PX625 mercury battery, which is no longer available in the states...

So, I've read endless debate over the usefulness of the various alternatives...wein zinc-air, 1.5 alkalines, mr-9 adapter, etc. Only one that seems reasonable performance-wise is the mr-9 adapter, but I'm looking to pick up this camera in the < $40 range and don't want to spend $30 on an adapter.

So, does anyone have any other camera suggestions for similar builds that don't use the merc batteries? I'm interested in a true RF, wide-ish lens (35, 40, etc), fast (the 1.7 of the canon would be nice). Aperture priority would be great (in addition to manual), but that seems to be rather uncommon (shutter priority seems to be norm).

Thanks,

Ben

-- Ben (grosser@uiuc.edu), February 02, 2000

Answers

I've used Yashica Electro 35GL Rangefinders as Backpack/Hiking/kick- around cameras for years. They take a readily available Lithium Battery (they average 2 years on 8 rolls/month usage). They are a little on the large side of a compact or pocket camera, but I have dropped them, pounded tent stakes (really!)with one, and have let my children (11,8,5) use them with no problems.

I believe that the Yashica is either 1.7 or 1.8 Max aperture - and it is shutter priority.

I got mine at Garage sales in CA and CO for around 20.00 each. Happy Hunting

-- Derek Isaacs (Derek.Isaacs@wcom.com), February 02, 2000.


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