To open a 35mm film cartridge, you typically pry off the top ring.
Opening a 35mm film cartridge is necessary when you want to access the film inside, perhaps for bulk loading or retrieval purposes outside of a camera. While specialized tools exist, a common method involves using a tool to leverage off the top ring.
Steps for Opening a 35mm Cartridge
Based on the provided reference, here's how you can open a 35mm film cartridge:
- Position the Cartridge: Hold the 35mm film can firmly.
- Use a Prying Tool: Rest your prying tool (like a bottle opener or a specialized film cartridge opener) on the ridges of the can.
- Get a Good Grip: Ensure you have a good grip on the film can to keep it stable.
- Pry Open the Ring: Apply upward pressure with the tool, much like you would open a beer top or pop the top off of something.
- Remove the Ring: This action will pry it open, and that ring will pop open, allowing you to remove the top of the cartridge and access the film spool inside.
It's important to be careful when prying to avoid damaging the cartridge body if you plan on reusing it, or damaging the film inside if it's still sensitive to light.
Considerations
- Tool Choice: While the reference mentions prying like a beer top, specialized tools designed for film cartridges provide a safer and more controlled method.
- Light Sensitivity: Remember that 35mm film is light-sensitive. If the film is not developed, this process should ideally be done in complete darkness or in a darkroom bag to avoid exposing and ruining the film.
- Cartridge Types: Most standard 35mm cartridges have a top ring that can be pried off.
Using the prying method allows you to separate the top cap and inner spool from the main body of the cartridge.
