Hitchhiker thumb grip for Leica M

A thumb grip for Leica M10 and M11 cameras that keeps the hot shoe free, allowing you use a flash or EVF without removing the thumb grip. It adheres to the camera body with 3M VHB acrylic foam, which is strong but removable without impacting the finish.

The VHB tape should be 5952 (1.1mm thick) and will need to be cut to a size of 27mm x 9mm.

To install: Add a strip of VHB tape to the inset in the back of the grip. Place the mounting tool on the camera such that it is up against the hot shoe as shown in the photo. Remove the VHB tape backing and place in the mounting tool, first placing the left side down, then moving to the right. Remove the mounting tool and apply pressure to the grip.

This is inspired by the Thumbie grip which I really like. I've tried to improve on its basic idea in two ways: 

1. I've increased the height so that it lines up with the top of the camera and the bottom of the thumb wheel grip

2. The VHB mounts in inset channel in the grip, so that it appears almost flush-mounted

I've also made a mounting tool that allows you to line up the grip with the top of the camera and the thumb wheel grip.

If you like the idea and aren't fussed about these things , I would recommend buying the Thumbie. It's black painted brass, so it'll patina nicer than any 3D printed materials. The Hitchhiker mounting tool will also work for the Thumbie.

The Hitchhiker will likely fit older digital Leica M rangefinder cameras with the thumb wheel, like the M240, M262, etc, but I have not tested it.

Please note: Version 3 updates the VHB inset, moves the thumb position slightly to the right, and increases the height by 1mm to sit more flush with the top of the camera. Version 3 requires version 3 of the mounting tool.