NickTrop
Veteran
Never had a problem using plastic Jobo tanks for 35mm. Sucks the film right up. However, I've too often had difficulty with 120 using plastic. Perhaps this is because I use a changing bag and the film doesn't "hang" and is all curled up in the bag. (35mm I leave in the cartridge to avoid this issue.)
I read a lot of good reviews of Hewes reels, but they're somewhat expensive as far as reels go. I think I paid $30 for mine a couple months ago. Anyway, I shot a roll of 100 Acros - first roll of 120 BW in a while and used the Hewes reels.
WOW! These things really do live up to their billing! The film slipped right into the spring/slot thingie and a few turns of the wrist and the film was perfectly loaded in a few seconds - as it should be. I didn't even waste a roll practicing (first time using steel...)
Yeah, they're pricey for reels, but this thing is worth every penny. Highly recommend Hewes reels for 120 (can't speak to 35...) if you're struggling too often loading 120 onto plasitc. Can't recommend it highly enough.
I read a lot of good reviews of Hewes reels, but they're somewhat expensive as far as reels go. I think I paid $30 for mine a couple months ago. Anyway, I shot a roll of 100 Acros - first roll of 120 BW in a while and used the Hewes reels.
WOW! These things really do live up to their billing! The film slipped right into the spring/slot thingie and a few turns of the wrist and the film was perfectly loaded in a few seconds - as it should be. I didn't even waste a roll practicing (first time using steel...)
Yeah, they're pricey for reels, but this thing is worth every penny. Highly recommend Hewes reels for 120 (can't speak to 35...) if you're struggling too often loading 120 onto plasitc. Can't recommend it highly enough.
mexipike
Established
I second that. The 35 reels are also great. They have little metal clips that grap the sprockets, ensuring that the film always goes on straight. Easiar than plastic, and never a botched roll.
drewbarb
picnic like it's 1999
It's a seemingly trivial thing, but good reels really do make a difference. For what it's worth, Jobo branded steel reels are identical, and sometimes cost a bit less. Once you use good reels, you'll never go back to cheap ones.