Do Canon Elan 35mm SLR have problems with sticky grips?

Question

I've been looking at buying one used. I've seen several that appear to have a sticky grip where your right hand holds the camera. Is this a case of the plastic of the grip breaking down. The area where you hold the camera on the left doesn't seem to have this problem.

Or is there a habit of some photographers where they put some adhesive on it for a sure grip?

Answer 1

Not sure if its very common on Canons, but a number of Nikon film cameras, particularly the F90, are known to have this exact same rubber deterioration issue on both the grip and the film back.

Answer 2

I've not heard anything regarding the Elan having problems with the grip - I do remember the Elan series have a rubberized grip, so the glue seeping through the rubberized grip sounds right.

And really, the Elan is a fantastic camera - I really love the second thumb wheel for independant changing of the Shutter Speed and Aperture.  And it's pretty quiet too.

I don't think the plastic shell itself is breaking down, it's more likely just the rubberized coating.

Answer 3

I dont have an Elan but I do have a lesser Canon Rebel Xs film camera from the 90's. The grip is fine on mine. I dont think its something that happens alot, but it is conceivable that the rubber could break down, or more likely in the heat the glue would seep through or around the rubber.

In any event it sould clean up fair enough.