Phil

Pip I have a shoe repair and had to replace an C.S. Osborne #155 that was someone else's when they retired. I purchased a new one along with an extra set of punches and anvils (yes, they are still made). The quality is every bit as good as the tools from 20 to 30 years ago. I will include their web address so you can download their current product catalog. Unless you're Hercules, the tool should last you a lifetime (we use ours several times a week). In the USA I paid $55.00 plus the cost of the other anvils (brass) and punches. They also make a great single punch set. I'm sure there are shoe repair suppliers in your area or near. http://www.csosborne.com/NO155.HTM Gremlin - That is one wicked pneumatic press!

Scouter The price may seem expensive to you but this will possibly change your mind. Art has hit the nail on the head as I have a shoe repair which requires a different type of machine. I own a Claes Model 20 (made in Germany) which will sew very fine thread through up to 1/2" leather like it's butter (I also own a 70 year old Landis Model "K" and a Landis Model 88 McKay for resoleing work). The price for a 5 year old used Claes machine, $3500.00 ($5200.00 new) and worth every penny. We simply have to use this machine on a daily basis or we can not repair seams. I used to own an old Adler Model 10 which skipped thread every 10th stitch, very aggravating and parts are no longer available. Invest you money now as they aren't getting any cheaper. I purchased a used Tippman Boss recently for $800.00 and took it back to Tippman for factory adjustment, charge $30.00 and the service was terrific as they went through my machine while I watched and learned! Just my two cents worth, hope this helps.

Guys I just want to say I appreciate all of your comments and advice as it has been very worthwhile. I'm learning from you all and don't post much as I'm a beginner. I can fix a wicked pair of boots though, Ha, ha! Thanks to you all and thought you would like to have Barry's business address, especially beginners like myself.

I was surprised to talk with Barry King yesterday when I called the posted number. I requested a catalog as I'm a newby and didn't realize this is a really small business (appx. $88,000 per year, 2 employees). I'm sure it is merely a labor of love as the family business is pretty good sized. My faith is renewed in American ingenuity, attention to detail and family business. Here is the listing I used as he doesn't have a web site: Barry King Tools 184 N. Main Sheridan, WY 82801 USA Phone: (307) 672-5657 FAX: (307) 672-5235 Cheers!

Looks like he should be very honored by your gift!

I've always wondered if plants scream when we kill them for consumption, but we just can't hear them. Hmmmm? Actually, I'm thankful for both. Just food for thought.

Pete Thanks for the tip, it makes a lot of sense and I wouldn't have thought of it for at least a couple years!

Thank you Billsotx for you great instructions. I hate to turn any work down as each is a unique experience. I wish to learn holster making and I figure this is a great way to get started. Sorry, I don't have the hand stitching tools yet. After a full day of working with feet, it's relaxing and creative. I just resigned my lease and we're adding 240 square feet to house all my repair equipment (no one left to farm this kind of work out to). This web site is the best! Thank you all, very much.

Jordan Thought I would charge around $15 to $20 (I think Bianchi's cost around $50.00). A local gunsmith said I shouldn't accept this guys personal checks though, LOL. Thanks for the response. The stitching around the lower edge after I split open the original stitching and sewed with my Claes made me nervous as I didn't have an edge guide so I used my thumbnail next to the presser foot. I switched to my Tippmann for the heavy seam as I haven't learned to hand stitch as yet. Most of my work has been shoe repair and orthopedic.

Here are two other pictures.

This is a customers Bianchi Holster he wanted shortened by 1.75" for a short 3" barreled Smith & Wesson 629. Although he just wanted functional, my business won't grow by making mediocre repairs. Stiching is my weakness and I should get better with time (I found it tough to follow original threads through thick leather). I was able to match colors with fiebings buckskin leather dye and dark brown along the edging after burnishing.

Wow! I think I might have to order one of your blades, It's absolutely stunning.

That is absolutely beautiful! I love all the detail. What did it take you, 100 hours?

Follow up on visiting Tippmann Industrial Products. Yesterday I made a 3 hour drive to Fort Wayne, Indiana with my used Boss. Ben Keck greeted me and was the technician who helped me go through the machine for re-adjustment. Two hours later and free replacement of some parts and updated parts cost under $30.00, resulted in a machine now in new working condition. Total cost was under $50.00 and the knowledge gained on set up and adjustment, priceless. I found the shop to be rather small (maybe 150' x 100') with very experienced staff building every gear, body, casting and workings (100% build in plant at Ft. Wayne). This is top shelf service you do not expect which included a plant tour of production (they no longer have a minimum $100.00 fee). I can say that the Boss can easily get out of adjustment over time and needle placement is critical when changing along with spring tensions. Ben mentioned many times he's opened a machine to find it packed in grease which stops it from operating correctly (you should not grease internal parts as they will not need it). Factory service is highly suggested and many upgrades are done which will help your used machines, some at no charge. I hope this answers some questions in this forum and feel free to respond. As far as the dealership drops are concerned, lets just say there may be an issue with the former distributor pending, concerning politics and patent rights.

TexasGeezer I am also new to this forum and am amazed at your outcome. Where did you find out about the process/ formula?

Thank you all for your observations and recommendations related to the Tippmann Boss manual sticher. I recently located a used machine for $800.00 from Landwerlen Leather, Indianapolis with all options and stand for sale as they are a former dealer. Taking into account it is a used machine from Bruce and others, I called the factory yesterday who suggested I make an appointment to bring it in to them since I live in Indiana so they could check it's condition. Next Wednesday I will be spending a couple hours with a technition who will go over my Tippmann Boss with me and make any neccesary updates. Price will start at $50.00 for the inspection and any price of parts. So far I have found the service exceptional. Being new to leather crafting, I appreciate this forum for information you all provide. I ask the technition why dealers are being dropped and his explanation was the margins for retail are just too small. I own a shoe repair and would like to do leather holster work and tooling. Thanks from Greenwood, Indiana!