boss single stitcher

[seabee]

Hi all,  I would like to buy a TIppmann BOSS as I can't hand stitch any more due to medical reasons and age.  Are the old cast iron models the same as the new models?  I'am starting to look for a used one in fair shape.

Thanks, , Howard

[Northmount]

On 12/9/2024 at 4:36 PM, seabee said:

Hi all,  I would like to buy a TIppmann BOSS as I can't hand stitch any more due to medical reasons and age.  Are the old cast iron models the same as the new models?  I'am starting to look for a used one in fair shape.

Thanks, , Howard

There are lots of posts about the Tippmann Boss.  Search them out.  From what I recall, most members that have or had them prefer the cast iron version.

These machines take a lot of arm/shoulder power.  Not good for medical reasons if you have any problems with arm, shoulder and neck. And of course age reduces the muscular strength you will need.  Every stitch requires a fairly long stroke.  Many of the problems with the Boss are due to not making the full stroke.  I know I wouldn't be able to operate these due to neck and shoulder issues.

[fredk]

On 12/9/2024 at 11:36 PM, seabee said:

Hi all,  I would like to buy a TIppmann BOSS as I can't hand stitch any more due to medical reasons and age.  Are the old cast iron models the same as the new models?  I'am starting to look for a used one in fair shape.

I have the newer cast aluminium version but as far as I can tell all the accessories can fit either

You may want to heed Northmount's warning, above. Another type of sewing machine used manually, with a balance wheel motion, might suit you better

[Dwight]

Well . . . there is a Boss sitting in my leather shop . . . I used it for 20 years . . . made belts . . . holsters . . . purses . . . knife sheaths . . . and others with it.

I'll have to say that I'm 80 years old . . . and if I had to  . . . I wouldn't think twice about going out there and knocking out a 50 inch double buscadero rig with it.

Yes . . . you do pull down with each stitch . . . then push back up to complete it.

A belt for a 40 inch customer generally took me 1/ 2 hour . . . 15 minutes each way . . . taking a 3 or 4 minute break half way thru each side.  That 40 inch belt will need in the neighborhood of 500 individual stitches.

It might be a good idea to go to a Tandy leather shop . . . let them show you the imitation that someone else makes.  Ask them if you could try to stitch a couple of 8 ounce pieces of leather together.  A good store will do that for you.  You'll also get a good idea of what you would be in for if you got one.

I would still be using it if I had not had a windfall of cash come my way.

May God bless,

Dwight