Metal Dark Slides

**Gene McCluney** · 4-Nov-2007, 03:40

In cleaning up a bunch of old holders, mostly wood, I find that the common Eastman Kodak wooden 5x7 holders seem to have a mix of either Metal dark slides, or the more common bakelite (or plastic like) slides.

I am wondering if this was a running change in the holder specifications, or if metal slides were an option? If an option, are there any advantages to the metal. All the metal slides I have seem to have considerable rub-off of the black coloration.

**Pete Watkins** · 4-Nov-2007, 06:42

Hi Gene,
I've just been cleaning up some Eastman Kodak half plate metal dark slides. I've found the same "problem" as you with the rub off but I've decided to just clean them up with what we call methelated spirits (God knows what it's called over there) using paper kitchen towel and leave them alone after that.
Best wishes,
Pete.

**Gene McCluney** · 4-Nov-2007, 07:57

Methelated spirits is a good term on this side of the pond also.

**Vaughn** · 4-Nov-2007, 16:57

Advantage of metal slides -- they don't crack of otherwise break.

I have a few for my 8x10 holders -- a bit heavier, but I use them on holders that are placed when some damage might happen.

I also used a metal dark slide when I cut one in half so that I could make two 4x10's on a sheet of 8x10.

Vaughn