Paterson Universal tank and 2 reels-#115

Paterson tanks are without a doubt, THE tanks to use and have been for a long time now. It is made of highly durable plastic, and is coated so that it won't retain any of the chemicals used (can destroy your processing!) PROS - Light-proofing system is recognized as the best on the market - Film loading ball-bearing system is beyond easy (I practiced twice before a real roll, and got it in one!) - Comes with agitating rod for multiple styles of agitation during processing - Adjustable reel for 35mm, 120mm and three other film sizes. Easily snaps into place. - Will not lock if seal is not proper, forget leaks they won't happen with this tank! - Maybe it was just luck, but I received two reels with my order? CONS - Sealing lid is a little tough to press down when you are using time-sensitive chemicals So this set-up cost more than my stainless steel 35mm and 120mm tanks combined, however in my opinion it is totally worth it! The ease of use makes it a pleasure to use even in the dark, and I have never had negatives stick together (unlike my stainless teel tanks...ugh). ADJUSTING THE REEL Once you know how, this is VERY easy. I didn't have instructions with my purchase (an oversight I was assured) and there really aren't any resources on the web. To adjust the reel for 120 film etc, hold both sides of the reel and turn clockwise with force. You will hear a squeak and a click, at which point you can pull the halves apart to adjust. Once you have it at the desired width, turn the opposite way to lock, again waiting for the squeak and click! And you're done! If you're still developing film in 2012 (good for you), join me in using this excellent set-up for great results every time.

If it’s not a Paterson, don’t get it. The off brands will disappoint you. These are made with quality in mind and they last just about forever.

The Paterson Universal Tank has become an indispensable asset in my film developing journey. Its thoughtful design and sturdy construction ensure a secure and light-tight environment for my film during the development process. The ease with which I can load and unload film, along with the efficient use of chemicals, has significantly improved my workflow. This tank's versatility and capacity to accommodate various film formats make it a must-have for any film photographer. Its reliable performance and consistent results have elevated the quality of my developed negatives. The Paterson Universal Tank has earned its place as a reliable companion in my darkroom, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow film enthusiasts seeking a dependable and efficient film developing solution.

This tank works great, but here are a couple of tips to help it work even smoother! When you're putting the lid on take your palm and press down on one half of it, and use your other hand to lift the edge on the other half. This will force air out and create a vacuum inside the tank, which will keep the lid on. I recommend wetting the reels before putting them in the tank and stuffing it into your darkroom bag. The water acts as a lubricant and makes it a lot easier to load the film onto the reel. Other than that everything should be pretty obvious. It's a good tank.

This tank does the job. Light proof, easy to use, and the right price. The only thing keeping it from being a 5 star is the reels. Getting film on them takes more than just a little practice. It is slightly easier than the old metal reels, but not much. If your film is thinner and flimsy then it is nearly impossible and you have to trim the corners, in the dark, to keep the film from jamming against the reel and creasing. There are better reels out there that will fit this tank and do a much better job. I have not switched to those and cannot believe I fought with these for so long. It is a night and day difference. So get the tank, it works well and does its job, but toss the reels. You want the reels with the wide loading ramp where these have small little tabs that you can't hardly feel in the dark. Just as an example, I picked up the ones from Adorama and they fit this tank fine. This tank is better than the one offered by Adorama, but the reels are not even close. Save yourself some frustration get different reels.

This Patterson tank is the gold standard for 120 and 135 auto-load reel processing. It threads straight and feeds well every time. It's really easy to handle by feel in the changing bag. The funnel design takes chemicals quickly, which is helps keep development time even when developing multiple reels. "Burping" the lid into place takes a little practice. Once you understand it, it's simple and highly effective. I suggest looking at YouTube tutorials.

Worth the purchase. I used this kit for years to develop my film at home.

No leaking. No chemical residual sticking. No poopy smells. Measurements on bottom. It works well. Totally light sealing. Makes developing a 1-2-3 simple process. So simple an absolute idiot could use it.