Buying Stainless Steel Dev Tanks in the U.K.

[s_r_shaw]

I've been using a Patterson dev tanks for quite some time. However, reading other threads many of you seem to recommend stainless steel reels/tanks. Once particular brand, Kindermann seems to be mentioned often.

I figured why not try one. I particularly like the idea of being able to load film whilst the spiral is slightly damp. However after a quick (well quite extensive) search, I can't find anybody selling them in the U.K.

Anybody know of any suppliers of Kindermann or other stainless steel tanks in the uk. Preferebably with a capacity of about 3 120 reels?

 

[clogz]

www.hewes.co.uk well made but pricey.

www.kindermann.de there is an English version. You may contact them to find dealers in the UK.


Regards
Hans

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

SS tanks are really indestructable, so it really is worth your while to look for them second hand at a fraction of the new price. If the lids are missing, all the better, because they will be cheaper, and you can get new plastic lids (better than metal lids, in my opinion) for them. Kindermann lids usually fill and dump fastest. Used SS tanks have gotten so cheap, I've built a collection of sizes from 1 35mm reel to 12, so I always have the right size tank.

Reels, though, you should buy new, at least until you get the hang of loading them and can recognize bad ones. Hewes reels are the best new reels.