The mystery 120 reel

[arden_howell]

Several months ago I read a thread here concerning a new 120 plastic

reel that was reputed to be much easier to load that the Patterson

ratcheting type which I now use. Confident that I could return to the

archives, I didn't record the name, or the supplier. Now of couse, in

spite of tons of stuff in the archives, I can't find the particular

info. that I recall. I'm fairly certain that the reels were plastic

and not stainless as I recall the price was around $8 or $9 per reel.

I know there are lots of advocates out there for Hewes stainless

reels which I will try if this search proves fruitless. Does any one

have a clue as to which reel this could have been? Thanks

[alec1]

Arden, I don't remember the plastic reel you're asking about, but let me tell you - there's nothing particular unique about the Hewes 120 reels. The 35mm reels do have a better film attachment arrangement, inasmuch as they engage the sproket holes rather than grip the film itself, but not the 120. You're just as well off with Nikor 120 reels. If you'll just practice awhile with them, you'll agree. I've used them for over 40 years. Hint: its the first "turn" that really counts. After that, they load smooth as silk.

 

Hope you find what you want.

[john_perry1]

There is a good chance it is the Beseler Ultra reel. I bought one based on comments here and find it easier to get the film started on the reel versus the Paterson.

[psychophoto]

Don't know about the plastic reels, but I've become a big fan of the Kinderman reels. By far the easiest reels to load that I've found so far, but that's just my personal take on it.

[mike3]

Save your money and take the two small steel balls out of your Paterson reels. Use your thumbs to hold the film while racheting it into the reel. I've loaded hundreds of rolls this way with zero problems.

 

Another note is that if humidity gets high, like in a small changing bag, loading will become very difficult as the gelatin gets tacky.