5x7 wide angle lenses: Protar V versus Wollensak IIIa?

Ok guys, I finally reached camera overload One of my 5x7 wide angle lenses must go. Would you guys say to keep the f18 Baush & Lomb Protar V or the f12 Wollensak IIIa? Who has used either of the two? I've not had the time or funds to try either yet, but I'm just running out of room.
Thanks in advance!

Gotta be personal preference ! On a scorecard, it's a wash.

Nothing wrong with either lens, used as it's intended.

I prefer the Protar, but I'd be happy to use either !

( but if you're running out of room, get rid of a big lens ! )

athanasius80 said:

Ok guys, I finally reached camera overload One of my 5x7 wide angle lenses must go. Would you guys say to keep the f18 Baush & Lomb Protar V or the f12 Wollensak IIIa? Who has used either of the two? I've not had the time or funds to try either yet, but I'm just running out of room.
Thanks in advance!

Click to expand...

Let the record read that I excoriated you for asking this question.

You're asking about aged lenses in who-knows-what condition. You have the lenses and can compare how well they shoot. No one else has them, so no one but you tell you which of the lenses you have in hand is the better for your purposes.

I don't shoot 5x7, so can't make you a sporting proposition. If I could, I'd offer to try both out on your behalf in exchange for the lens I liked better.

Its a fair bet that if you rid yourself of a lens without trying it first, it'll be one of the best lenses you've ever owned. Test them both first before deciding. If you don't have room or funds for testing them pronto, use them for paper wieghts, book ends, whatever---just give them a fair chance before you liquidate to avoid experiencing a 'vast surging regret'

My 2 cents anyway.