Overview

The Elicar 28mm f/2.8 is a lightweight M42 lens praised for its compactness and suitability for street photography. It delivers high contrast, especially when paired with pushed Tri-X film. Its optical strengths include good performance at f/16–f/22 for zone focusing, but no specific weaknesses are noted. Build and handling are simple and lightweight, ideal for a 'don't think, react' shooting style. It suits photographers seeking an affordable, compact wide-angle for candid or high-contrast black-and-white work.