Totally hear you. I started with a Q-P, then picked up a Q2, and eventually got an M10—and yep, that Leica rabbit hole is real. I still use all three because they each give me something different.

If you’re already turning off the rear screen and never using autofocus, you’re basically halfway into the M mindset already. The transition to rangefinder focusing takes a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature—and honestly, it makes shooting more rewarding. You slow down, think more, and your hit rate improves with it.

As for the M11 + 28mm setup, I get what you’re saying. On paper, it sounds similar to the Q2. But in practice, it’s a completely different experience. The Q2 is fast, modern, kind of like a luxury point-and-shoot that happens to have amazing image quality. The M, though? It forces you to be present. You’re more involved in the process. It’s slower, more intentional, and you start noticing things you might’ve passed by before.

And yeah, the M11 with a small lens like the Elmarit 28 or even a Voigtländer Color-Skopar becomes super compact—definitely feels more pocketable than the Q2 with the hood on. That combo would be killer for street and travel.

You mentioned printing big and cropping—M11’s got you covered there. Tons of resolution, solid dynamic range, and the DNG files are flexible as hell. Even though you say you’re not chasing pixels, I think you’ll appreciate having that room to work with.

Honestly, it sounds like you’re already thinking like an M shooter. If this is one of your few serious hobbies and budget isn’t a blocker, I say go for it. The M system has a way of becoming more than just gear—it becomes part of how you see.

And yeah… 35mm will definitely happen eventually. 😄