Best hand microtome for orchid roots

[nschicke]

Hi everyone,

I'm doing my PhD in Germany on the function of the velamen in orchid roots. In a few months I will be heading to Panama for my fieldwork component and am looking to buy a hand microtome for the preparation of root cross-sections while over there. This is pretty easy to do free-hand if the roots are thick (like those in Phaleanopsis) but quite challenging in thin roots.

Does anyone here have any general experience using hand microtomes for preparing cross-sections? I have found that there are two types available: a box type and a circular type. I haven't been able to find any concrete statements suggesting that one is better than the other so anyone with prior experience or input would be greatly appreciated!