Good points.
If you have a small propane torch (a lighter will actually do but don't burn your fingers) to slightly warm about 4" of the pipe end does wonders. I can easily join pipes myself when I do that. Hot summer day usually not needed. Cold winter day good luck without warming the pipe. I like to tighten the clamps with the pipe still warm. Don't heat too much or you will be cutting 6" off and starting over.
Letting the pipe lay out straight on a warm sunny day certainly makes handling it easier.
Can get 500' rolls from commercial plumbing places, but better have a tractor with fork lift and pipe to roll it out. I found it was actually cheaper at the big box stores in 100' rolls. Some stores handle only one grade, some both.
Back in the olden days this type pipe is all my dad used around the farm. Better stuff for running water pipes now so it is not as popular as it once was and harder to find.
Edit: my dad used to put a dab of lead based paint on the fittings to help seal them to water pressure and prevent leaks.......maybe that is why I turned out the way I did!
