trimming the film leader

[John Camp]

I've been trimming the film leader back ~20 sprocket holes before loading film into an M7, but finally started wondering...what does that really do? I can't figure it out by looking at it -- what difference does it make whether you trim or not?

JC

 

[Michael I.]

I've been trimming the film leader back ~20 sprocket holes before loading film into an M7, but finally started wondering...what does that really do? I can't figure it out by looking at it -- what difference does it make whether you trim or not?

JC

I am not sure you need to trim leaders for M series leicas

 

[boarini2003]

I've never had a leica, but logic would say that modifications to film leaders would not be necessary. I may be wrong though...

 

[VictorM.]

Trimming is not necessary on M bodies.

 

[MinorTones]

Its only needed on the bottom loader pre-M models. Even then trimming 20 sprocket holes isn't needed. You just cut it at more of an angle.

So save that film and get an extra pic on your roll. 😀

 

[pvdhaar]

I've been trimming the film leader back ~20 sprocket holes before loading film into an M7, but finally started wondering...what does that really do? I can't figure it out by looking at it -- what difference does it make whether you trim or not?

JC

Historically, trimming is required to match the shape of older 35mm film leaders. They allowed cameras to be loaded while the pressure plate isn't away from the film gate, and without obstructing the deep set sprocket teeth.

With hinged backs, it's no longer necessary. The user inserts the film with the sprocket teeth into the film sprocket holes already.

 

[jaapv]

But trimming it will ensure that the first pull of your film advance engages the sprocket holes on both sides of the film, making failure that less likely. It is not necessary or even recommended though.

 

[John Camp]

Okay. I think I mmisinterpreted the instructions in the Leica manual which is a moderately poor translation from the German: "The film leader must be trimmed as is the case with all ready to use films." I now think that means you must trim if you use bulk-loaded film...Thanks for the info...

JC

 

[OldNick]

I suspect that your manual is from the 50s or 60s when all commercial film had pre-trimmed leaders. Since that is no longer the case, it is wise to trim leaders when loading the pre-M Barnack Leicas. I always trim them for my Leica IIIa and IIIf.

Jim N.

 

[Shac]

Hi - I have M's with and without quick loads and have never had a problem with the film leader as it ciomes out oif the canister. You do need to trim a modern film leader for LTM's - unless you use the business card method.
David