tgidry Report post Posted April 15, 2009 I found a dealer about an hour drive from me and he sells Econosew Highlead & Gemsy. Holsters will probably the largest thing (thickest) that I will be sewing. He said that the Highlead GA2688-1 would work from what he sells. He also said that it would be a little more than what I would need which is okay with me. I would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it. Now I know about Artisen, Cowboy and Cobra, but this guy is only an hour away if I have problems. I also know that help with the others is only a phone call away. I guess what it boils down to is......is this a good machine. I'm not commited to buy from him because I'm still looking. The dealer is originally from Russia and seems very know his stuff. it took awhile for this bayou Cajun to understand him but I'm sure it went both ways LOL. Thanks for the input. Tucker Here is a picture Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
esantoro Report post Posted April 15, 2009 If I'm not mistaken, that machine should be similar to the Artisan 4000P, heavier duty than the 4000R. From what I understand, Highlead is name to trust regarding these machines. What is your dealer asking for the machine? ed Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tgidry Report post Posted April 15, 2009 $3600.00 I think. We didn't talked to much on the price because he is going to try and locate a second hand machine first. If he can't find one then I will decide to buy something from him or else where. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
neelsaddlery Report post Posted April 15, 2009 Hello All: The photo you sent is a Highlead machine for certain. It is the same machine as the Artisan Toro 4000P. The machine is billed to sew a bit heavier than the 441 clones, but in all honesty I don't think it will perform much better. There may be some differences in quality, fit and finish of parts, and longevity of the machine when compared to the 441 clones like what we all sell, but the price is also substantially higher. One thing to remember about Highlead is that they charge a big pile of money for the machines when they sell them to the dealer. So the dealer has to charge a lot more money for them because he has to pay a lot more for them. Whether you are getting that much more for the money is really up to individual preferences. One thing to also remember is that the Highlead machines, like all of the 441 clones we all sell, come from China. That does not mean anything bad, but remember that when you buy you a Highlead machine you are not buying a German or Japanese made machine. It is made in China like all the others. On a cost per quality comparision, I personally think the 441 clones offer better value. That is why I think so many people sell the 441 clones here in the USA as opposed to the higher priced Highlead Models, Juki Models, and Adler Models. The price of $3600.00 is actually a very good price for this machine if it is equipped the same as the 441 clones. I am suprised that the dealer can offer this to you for so low of a price. Does the machine come with a height adjustable pedestal style stand with wheels, variable speed servo motor, speed reducer, and halogen light? Just some things to consider. If it does come with all of this stuff, then I would buy it, as it is a very good deal. If you need some additional advice, please feel free to call me, and and I will tell you what I know about these machines, as well as others. Kindest Regards, Ryan O. Neel Neel's Saddlery and Harness Cowboy Sewing Machines 1-866-507-8926 (toll free) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tgidry Report post Posted April 15, 2009 (edited) This is his web site All American Sewing he is located in Baton Rouge La. Click on the Post and cylinder bed link to check out the machines he has to offer and his prices. There are a few things that I need to consider also and that is accessories. He might sell the machines but I don't think he offers accessories specific to the leather/saddlers industry, not like Artisen, Cowboy and Cobra offers. However the more I think about it the more I'm changing my mind. Thanks again for the input. Tucker Edited April 15, 2009 by tgidry Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Art Report post Posted April 15, 2009 Hi Tucker, I have two of those machines, one set up to sew leather and the other to sew blankets. The blanket machine takes a world of abuse and keeps on keepin' on. It is setup with a clutch motor and no reducer, 900spm for hours at a time. The machine setup for leather is more mild mannered and a bit of an overkill. I agree with Ryan that value wise, a 441 clone set up for leather with speed reducer and quality servo motor is a better bet. Highlead makes very good machines, they also get a good price for them. Set up for leather, that machine (Ga2688-1) usually goes for around $3900, you can get an equivalent machine from Cowboy or Cobra for $1000 or more less and still have as much machine as you'll ever need. Ryan: http://www.neelsaddlery.com/397930.html Cowboy 7441AE Steve: Http://www.cobrastitch.com Cobra Type 4 Art This is his web site All American Sewing he is located in Baton Rouge La. Click on the Post and cylinder bed link to check out the machines he has to offer and his prices. There are a few things that I need to consider also and that is accessories. He might sell the machines but I don't think he offers accessories specific to the leather/saddlers industry, not like Artisen, Cowboy and Cobra offers. However the more I think about it the more I'm changing my mind. Thanks again for the input. Tucker Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
