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Reels and [[core|cores]] are the primary tools used to hold lengths of film. Because they are so fundamental, there are many types. They may hold as little as 50 feet of film (for example, for 16mm trailers or a Super 8 home movie) or as much as 18,000 feet (for use with a 35mm long-play tower system in a [[multiplex]] setting).


'''Shipping reels''' are used to when shipping 35mm and 70mm film between depots, archives, and venues. They can be made of steel or plastic, though plastic shipping reels are more common. Shipping reels are designed for shipping, and are not recommended for projection.


==Types of Reels==
'''Show reels''', also called "'''house reels'''" are used for projection. In 35mm & 70mm settings today, a typical show reel is a 2000 foot metal reel. In small gauge settings, a "show reel" may simply be the sturdiest, most 'true' reel of appropriate capacity the projectionist can locate.


'''Shipping reels''' are used to transport film from depots and archives to venues. They can be made of steel or plastic, though plastic shipping reels are much more common. Shipping reels are for SHIPPING. They are not for PROJECTING. This is a common misconception.
'''[[Split reel|Split reels]]''' are used when working with film on [[core|cores]] — for example, to transfer film from a core to a reel for exhibition. Split reels are not recommended for projection, but you should have one on your bench. They exist for all [[film gauge|film gauges]].
 
'''Show reels''', also called "house reels" are used for projection. Venues should keep a set of house reels in excellent condition for projection, and replace as necessary.
 
'''Split reels''' are used transfer film on [[core|cores]] to reels. Split reels are not suitable for projection.
 
==Reel sizes==
 
Reels come in sizes as small as 50 feet (typically for 16mm trailers) to as large as 18,000 feet for long-play tower systems or double mutts. Reels with hubs smaller than 4 inches are generally not suitable for projection. It is important that reel hubs are perfectly round or film can become damaged from an uneven wind.  


==Reels & film damage==
Unmaintained reels can be a source of [[film damage]].
* Inspect all reels regularly to make sure they are true and don't have any sharp burrs that might snag or rub on film.
* Reels with center hubs smaller than 4 inches are not recommended for projection (they can cause too much tension to be placed on the film) or for long term film storage (they can cause warping).


==See also==
* [[Core]]
* [[Trailer flange]]
* [[Split reel]]


[[Category:Film handling]]
[[Category:Film handling]]
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