scratches on film

[dfoo]

What are the common culprits for scatches on film from Leica M cameras? I found a few scratches on factory loaded film, that I pretty carefully processed and scanned directly after drying (ie: no sleeving before the scan). The film was kept in containers, and then put directly in the camera, and was developed. Yet there are still a few scratches on the film, so I'm thinking it must somehow be the camera. What would be the common places for such scratches to occur in the camera itself?

 

[35mmdelux]

generally its the pressure plate.

 

[dufffader]

I believe that the velvety part of the film canister where the film emerges from the cassette will also scratch the film. Which is why some swear on reusable canisters like the LEitz IXMOO/FILCA. I have a bunch of those but I want to use up most of my normal film before I start using them. Hoping to get a reduction in scratches.

 

[jackp510]

I had the same problem with my M6 and it was definitely the pressure plate. You can test for this by taking some film that's unscratched. Manually place it non-emulsion side against the pplate and move it side to side as if it was being advanced/rewinded. Hold the film against light. If there are scratches then it is the pressure plate. Call Leica USA to order a new one. I believe it was btw $100-200 and ask them to also mail you a copy of replacement instructions (it was not hard at all to replace with eyeglass tools).

Jack