Recently, I was asked to test the newly developed Shen-Hao 5x7 film holders. These holders are scheduled to become generally available at the end of this month, depending on shipping, customs delays, etc. The holders are made of wood, with a firm metal core and metal (or plastic) darkslides (I cannot tell which, and I don't want to scratch the darkslides to find out.). The holders are carefully made, with dove-tailed wooden parts for strength and durability. I am not sure what species the wood is, but it looks like spruce to me, with a very smooth tough surface and good tensile strength. One holder came in a natural (clear) finish and other was painted black. I believe that the natural finish will be the one that will become available. (The black paint did not look as durable or attractive to me as the clear finish.) All parts are accurately made. The dimensions (insert depth, overall dimensions, etc.) were identical to Fidelity holders. In the field, I found that I could use these holders interspersed with Fidelity holders without any awkwardness.
I've always used Fidelity or Toyo (8x10) holders; so I was, at first, a little suspicious of wood construction. However, I found that the holders work well. They are easy to load and use, with no light leaks or other problems. I made several suggestions to the importer that I will be implemented. One involved dust, which I needed to blow out of the light trap; but I've had that same sort of problem with other new holders. The slides and the locks are a little on the stiff side (especially the locks) but it is far preferable for them to work a little hard than for them to be too loose. I expect the locks to loosen up with use.
I know Badger Graphic Sales will be handling these holders. I am not sure what other importers in the U.S. will have them. With these holders (and with Fotoman's forthcoming holders) 5x7 again has all its parts available.
I have no commercial relationship with Shen-Hao. I am a customer of Badger Graphic. I was given the two holders that I tested. Otherwise, there was no compensation. I was not asked to post this message, and I am doing so simply to let people know about the renewed availability of 5x7 holders.
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