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Steve --
I've done some testing of tube agitation rate and have concluded that if the tubes are kept in constant motion the speed of rotation doesn't have a dramatic affect on image contrast. But there is some slight difference between gentle and vigorous agitation so it's a good idea to adopt a technique that's effective and convenient and employ it consistently.
I don't recommend the "light dragging motion" agitation method because I worry that it may not always provide actual rotation. I prefer to agitate the tubes in pairs, "pinching" them together so that, when released with a vigorous snap, they spin toward each other rapidly. Then I let them coast almost to a stop (2 or 3 seconds) before snapping them again. This method contributes to consistently uniform development and, with a little practice, you'll find it easy and relaxing. It does require an even number of tubes, though, so keep an extra dummy tube handy to round out the group when processing 1, 3, or 5 sheets.
I ream the washed tubes out with stick and a square of old towel.
I know of no good reason to avoid a hardening fixer if your film needs it.Steve --
I've done some testing of tube agitation rate and have concluded that if the tubes are kept in constant motion the speed of rotation doesn't have a dramatic affect on image contrast. But there is some slight difference between gentle and vigorous agitation so it's a good idea to adopt a technique that's effective and convenient and employ it consistently.
I don't recommend the "light dragging motion" agitation method because I worry that it may not always provide actual rotation. I prefer to agitate the tubes in pairs, "pinching" them together so that, when released with a vigorous snap, they spin toward each other rapidly. Then I let them coast almost to a stop (2 or 3 seconds) before snapping them again. This method contributes to consistently uniform development and, with a little practice, you'll find it easy and relaxing. It does require an even number of tubes, though, so keep an extra dummy tube handy to round out the group when processing 1, 3, or 5 sheets.
I ream the washed tubes out with stick and a square of old towel.
I know of no good reason to avoid a hardening fixer if your film needs it.
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