The unofficial Xtol Appreciation Thread

I use my X-tol at room temperature don't even check the temp apart from dipping a finger in to make sure its not too cold, if using 1:1 which is very rare then check the temp of the stock if its 18 degrees mix some cold/warm water to about 22 degrees mix it up with the stock and it will be near enough the right temp(for me anyway).
 
I just make my mix then pop it in the bath with some hot water in it (My version of a water bath) my tap water is usually 18-19 degrees so takes about 2 minutes to bring it up to 20 degrees. I find Xtol is ok within almost a degree either side of 20 C. I'm sure it drops while developing etc but works for me.
 
I try to use the times for ambient temps going from Anchell & Troop's recommendations and the time/temp chart in their film cookbook. I also extend the times considerably (1.5 to 2X recommended) using intermittent agitation - one minute agitation to start followed by 10 sec every three minutes. That works well with 1:3 and tames extreme contrast, i.e. a nighttime house fire with flames showing.
 
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