Which
backs fit these?
So which backs should
you use? There are two different kiev backs. The old style backs work
like the first 'blad backs in that you line up the number on the film
in a window to set the first frame then wind on the back backwards to
reset the counter. The new style "NT" backs are more like the A
series "automatic" 'blad backs in that you align the line on the film
with a red dot and then wind to the first frame. Also these backs are
hinged to allow the insert to be easily replaced and have a holder for
the darkslide built into the back of them. The NT backs also are
said to hold the film flatter but they are more prone to light leaks.
Arax feels the OT backs are more reliable and again since the backs
seem to cause many of the problems these have, the less complex OT
backs are probably a good idea.
If you choose to get a 'blad back compatible
Hartblei, you have to use either 'blad backs or Hartblei modified 'blad
compatible Kiev backs. There was said to be a Hartblei model that
Kievcamera sold a while ago that would accept both Kiev and 'blad backs
but these are no longer being sold and it's unclear how well all of
these worked with both kinds of backs. I personally chose to buy
a hartblei 'blad back model to avoid having to use the kiev made backs
altogether. It came with one NT back which jamed at the end of the
first roll when the tape got caught in a roller and is no where near as
smooth as the 'blad back I tried on it.