u/Exciting_Rise1262

I’m seriously considering moving from a Sony A7RV to a Leica M system, but before spending $8–10k I’d really like to know whether I actually enjoy the rangefinder experience—or the new EV1 EVF experience.

A little context:

• I’ve shot Sony for years and mostly use manual placement of the AF point rather than relying on subject tracking.
• I’m looking for a simpler, more intentional shooting experience in a smaller, more portable package.
• I wear progressive glasses, so I’m a little concerned the rangefinder patch may not work well for my eyes.
• I’m also not sure if I’ll like the EV1 experience. It seems like a very specific way of focusing, and since it’s a first-generation camera, I’m wondering if it’s still a bit early.
• I’ve manually focused on my Sony A7RV using focus magnification, and it works well for me. I’ve heard some people say the EV1’s manual focusing experience isn’t as good as Sony’s. Is that actually the case?
• I mostly shoot street, travel, documentary, landscapes, and environmental portraits.

What’s the best way to actually live with one of these cameras for a week or two instead of spending 15 minutes with it in a camera store?

Would you:

• Rent one? If so, from where?
• Buy used and resell it if it isn’t for me?
• Find a Leica dealer with an extended demo program?
• Something else?

I’m less concerned with image quality and specs than I am with whether the shooting experience clicks with me. I’d rather find out now than after spending a small fortune.

I’d especially appreciate hearing from anyone who switched from a modern Sony mirrorless camera to an M (or the EV1), particularly if you wear progressive lenses.