Re: [Leica] Ok, what's the secret…

["Edward J Kowaleski" <edwardkg@umd.umich.edu>]

I'd guess the film leader is not long enough.  A number of years ago Kodak, Fuji,
et al decided that the leader could be cut by almost two inches and this worked
well with the newer compact cameras.  Try trimming about 2" off the leader and
see if that doesn't simplify loading.  A template is best to minimize ragged
edges that could catch on the innards of the camera but a knife works well also
if used with care.  Hope it works for you.  Ed Kowaleski

Voigtgroup@aol.com wrote:

> Recently, I resurrected my IIIf from the back of my camera shelf. Can't seem
> to load a roll of film into it without the film jamming and/or tearing. I ran
> tons of film through it many years ago. As I remember it, sometimes I would
> trim the tab down per the little picture on the base plate, sometimes not. It
> didn't seem to make a difference. Even loaded my home-rolled cassettes
> without a problem. Is today's film base thinner? Is there a loading trick
> I've forgotten?
>
> Also discovered that my favorite leather strap on it has dried out. Any
> suggestions for a replacement?
>
> Would appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.
>
> Many Thanks!