Good changing bag for a 4 reel tank.

[Benjamin]

Hello, at the moment I have a smallish changing bag and before now I used to process everyday and I would just use the single spool patterson tanks and alternate between them during processing.

However, I've now found myself in the position of going through much more film and I also have a rather large backlog of stuff to process. I have a couple of large 4 spool patterson tanks, but I just wonder what kind of size bag I should be looking at to work in comfortably?

Seeing as I'll have to order on the internet I thought it wise to ask here, as there aren't any stores near me that have one I can try for size.

Also, I do have a darkroom and whilst it's safe enough to print in, I wouldn't really like to run any risk with my film.

Thanks to those who can offer any advice.

 

[mike507]

I use the Photoflex Changing Room to load 2 120 reel tanks, so that would be the same as 4 35 mm reels. I don't know the exact dimention, but it's quite large, I think it was most likely desinged for loading large format film holders. It's very easy to work in, it has supports built into it so its like a miniture fee standing tent.

 

[dof]

I use the Photoflex Changing Room to load 2 120 reel tanks, so that would be the same as 4 35 mm reels. I don't know the exact dimention, but it's quite large, I think it was most likely desinged for loading large format film holders. It's very easy to work in, it has supports built into it so its like a miniture fee standing tent.

I use an older version of the same bag to load a 5-reel (35mm) Jobo tank. It's also great for loading and unloading 4x5 films and every other task I've needed from it. Another good feature is that it also folds into a largish flat circle, so storage is quite simple.

 

[Benjamin]

Great advice, thanks for your help.

 

[Fotohuis]

If you're loading more then 2 reels it's going to be difficult in a changing bag.
I think the changing tent is a much better choice when having 4 reels. A bag is going to sweat and then the reel is blocking. Go for the tent, you will not regret it.

 

[Bob Michaels]

I have the large size changing bag and a Red Wing tent (similar to the Photoflex) I load the big Paterson (5 35mm or 3 120 reels) in either one with no problem.

The tent is definitely roomier but the large bag is certainly big enough. Sometimes I choose one with the big tank, sometimes the other. I almost always use the large bag with the mid size Paterson tank (3 35mm or 2 120 reels) for some unknown reason.

 

[Chuck Albertson]

Don't hold back, get the Changing Room. I use mine to load a 4-reel tank all the time. You can find everything inside the bag, and your hands won't get as hot and sweaty as they might in a regular bag.

 

[Benjamin]

Yes I've seen those before, Photoflex Changing Rooms, they're just quite pricey but I will try and get hold of one when money allows


Thanks again for the replies.

 

[pschauss]

I use an 8x10x6" plastic container inside of my changing back to keep the top of the changing bag from flopping onto my hands.. It also helps keep everything organized . For a four reel tank you might want to use a larger container.

 

[ChrisPlatt]

Look for an air-conditioned one. By the time you get to the fourth reel it will be very clammy in there.
Depending on what type of reels you will be using all that moisture can cause jamming...

Chris

 

[mmabale]

Why do all 4 reels in the bag at once? I have a smaller bag, too. For my 4 reel tank I load one reel at a time, pop it in the tank, close the lid, open the bag, remove film roll canister, then insert one more roll and one more reel. Repeat 3 more times. Less stuff fumbling around and a chance to wipe my hands dry between rolls.

 

[nikon_sam]

Get the Tent...I've had mine for over ten years...and only on a very hot day and if I'm having problems getting the film to load do I feel any humidity building up inside...plus the bag itself isn't on your hands while working...
Look at it more as a long term investment...many years ago I was told this...
"Buy the Best and cry once..." Many years later I still hear this when making big decisions...