LC29 - Where to buy?

[bvy]

I'm trying to find Ilford's LC29 developer in the States. Neither B&H nor Adorama carry it. I'm just starting to develop black and white film, and this seemed like a good developer to start with. It's basically the same as HC, as I understand it, but a little easier to prepare. And it's probably just the right amount for a few trials.

Anyone know where I might be able to get some? Thanks.

 

[BradS]

why not just buy and use HC-110?
It is considerably less expensive than LC29...and LC29 is Ilford's attempt to imitate HC-110...so, why not just use the real thing?

 

[clayne]

I'm just starting to develop black and white film, and this seemed like a good developer to start with.

Bzzt. Walk before you run.

Kodak D-76.

 

[CBG]

Use HC-110 and ignore Kodak's directions for dilution. About halfway down this long - and good - page there are guidelines for simpler approaches to dilution. www.covingtoninnovations.com/hc110

Covington's page also leads to other info on HC-110:
www.kodak.com/global/en/professional/support/techPubs/j24/j24.jhtml
www.digitaltruth.com/devchart.php massive development chart
www.mironchuk.com/hc-110.html advice on use of HC-110
www.stefanheymann.de/foto/entwickler/hc-110.htm info in German on HC-110

 

[Antti]

why not just buy and use HC-110?
It is considerably less expensive than LC29...and LC29 is Ilford's attempt to imitate HC-110...so, why not just use the real thing?

LC29 is not Ilford's attempt to imitate HC-110. It is Ilfotec HC that is quite similar to HC-110. LC29 is more dilute version of Ilfotec HC. LC29 is great stuff, not expensive and much nicer to use than HC / HC-110.

 

[P C Headland]

Bzzt. Walk before you run.

Kodak D-76.

I'm not sure I'd agree with this. A long lasting liquid concentrate is a very good place to start. It pretty much ensures consistency from one mix to another - no worrying if the developer is going off.

The most important thing is to start with one developer, and stick to that while you sort the basics.

 

[wogster]

LC29 is not Ilford's attempt to imitate HC-110. It is Ilfotec HC that is quite similar to HC-110. LC29 is more dilute version of Ilfotec HC. LC29 is great stuff, not expensive and much nicer to use than HC / HC-110.

I think the price really depends on where you are, in Briton and Europe where most items within Europe can go ground transport, it's a lot cheaper then for North America where some of these products are shipped by air. Here in Canada HC110 is about $15 a bottle, similar for Rodinal, Infotec HC is $60 for a similar amount, and LC29 isn't even available at most places that sell darkroom supplies.

I would say as well, that the best options are D76/ID11 or HC110, I currently use D76 myself. It's cheap and easy to get, and your not shipping water.