Abstract: A new paper loading system is featured with a convenient drop-in paper loading and a full slip path in a receipt printer. The paper is dropped into a paper receiving bucket disposed in the central portion of the printer. The paper is fed from the bucket; and thereafter, a receipt is printed. Then, the paper is cut to the appropriate receipt length. A slip path is also provided for insertion of a single or multi-part form used for credit or check validation. The relative position of the slip path would normally interfere with the drop-in loading of the paper supply roll into the bucket. The system allows the fixed blade assembly to support a slip path upon a rear surface thereof. The slip path is substantially parallel or adjacent to the paper receipt path, which passes between assemblies supporting a fixed blade and a movable, rotary blade. The fixed blade unlatches and pivots away from the rotary blade, thus opening the printer and exposing the paper loading bucket for access thereto.