Trimming 5 x 7 film to get 2 1/4 x 3 1/4 for film holders??

[StephenT]

I've recently acquired some 2 1/4 x 3 1/4 press style cameras with spring backs. I have plenty of film holders. The price and availability of sheet film in that size certainly corresponds to its supply and demand graphs! I searched the forums for trimming 5 x 7, but didn't find any posts. Is that because it is the logical thing to do and that discussion isn't necessary?? It seems that one could easily get 4 sheets out of a 5 x 7 for around 50 cents a sheet (assuming a rotary trimmer is available). Or is everyone using the Arista for around 70 cents a sheet? Is so, what is the delivery time? It is special order at B&H and Freestyle only has ISO 100 in stock.

 

[FredW]

There is also the option of using the Ilford ulf program. The film is available cut to size, both hp5+ and fp4+.

 

[peter k.]

Well I purchased 2 x3 from Freestlye, but for my 9x12.. 3x4.. I cut all my own film for.
It's no big deal.. very few do it, have been doing it for years now.
In fact I was going to do th especial order from Ilford which can be very handy, but had none, so just end up cutting my own as I need.
Generally cut a group when I do it , and store it as such.
I happen to use s knife guillotine.. that I attached a wooden block to, to hold the film while it was being cut, that could be shut, with spacers made out of manila folders, to get the correct size. Works great. Give it a thought process.
Unfortunately my setup, is at home in Arizona and I am here in Texas with my 2x3 speed with a roll film back and an RB67.. so cannot take a picture of it for you.

 

[Kyle M.]

Freestyle also has Arista cheaper than the Ilford special order, you could always go that route. It would be cheaper than buying 5x7 to cut down.

 

[paul ron]

set up a jig so you can cut it in total darkness.

 

[rjs003]

set up a jig so you can cut it in total darkness.

Been cutting 5x7 X ray film for the past few months. Cost about 9 cents per shot. I have 2 1\4 X 3 1\4 cut film backs for my RB 67.
Other added benefit is that X ray film can be handled under red safe light.
Check out X ray film on the large format web site.