I just attempted to load a 120 film onto a Paterson reel for the first time. It did not go well
I have watched a number of YT videos on different methods for loading the film and everyone was successful.
I tried with the paper backing on which didn't seem to work. I then took the paper backing off and persevered for maybe an hour with the result my hands got sweaty and the film started to get sticky.
At one point I thought I had it past the ball bearings so started with the r/h reel to load the film: it moved about 2 inches then the end came out.
The end result: one wasted film and an hour or more of my life I'll never get back coupled with a high level of frustration and stress. It really shouldn't be this hard!
I have an old exposed film and that worked fine in daylight with and without my eyes shut but in the changing bag, no go!
I'm looking at getting a stainless steel reel for 120 films as these are apparently much easier - I'm looking to get
this one that apparently fits the Paterson tanks. I'd appreciate knowing what do people think? And any advice as well appreciated.