This question is asked a lot.
Most popular reply? What do you want to make?
If holsters and saddles are your thing, you need a big machine. Think cowboy 3500, 4500 or cobra 3 or 4. Investment? Over 2000.00 plus shipping.
Wallets and flat goods? Consew 206-rb5 are popular at about 1200.00 plus shipping.
These are walking foot machines and yes they are expensive. But you will need all the help you can get from them as well as a reputable seller.
(Short answer) Don't buy off eBay. Buy from someone who not only supports this site, but customers as well. These guys step up before, after and even for noncustomers.
Cowboy Bob, Cobra Steve, Uwe, Alex from solar machines. All great helpful guys. I'm sure there are more.