Evaluation:  
Conclusion: Very Good, But Expensive 28mm lens for Leica M mount rangefinder cameras
Review: The 28mm f2.8 Elmarit-M lens has been overlooked lately, in comparison with its faster 28mm f2 Summicron sibling, and perhaps rightfully so, since the latter is among Leica's best wide angle lenses for its M mount rangefinder cameras. However, this 28mm lens is a fine performer in its own right, favored by many documentary photographers and photojournalists for its fine sharpness and contrast, and wider angle of view than the typical 35mm lens used by most Leica M photographers (For example, I have seen excellent work produced with this lens by distinguished Magnum Photos photographer Bruce Gilden.). Unless you need the extra speed - and expense of the 28mm f2 Summicron, then this 28mm lens may be more suitable for general purpose wide angle rangefinder photography. However, if you are interested in excellent optical value at a more reasonable price, then the new Zeiss Ikon ZM Carl Zeiss 28mm f2.8 Biogon may be a more attractive alternative (It offers the same optical performance as the 28mm f2.8 Elmarit-M, but at a substantial fraction of the Leica lens' cost.).
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