COBRA SEWING MACHINES

[Cobra Steve]

Hello to all. Everyone has seen what is going on in the Sewing Machine world. Most of you know me as being an honest, hardworking, man who will go out of my way for you, the customer. My customer service is well known and documented. The COBRA line of stitchers are made in the finest factories. You all know that price is not the deciding factor when purchasing a leather stitching machine. Recently Tim Cox of Zack White Leather told me that his customers preferred the COBRA over my competitors 4 to 1. After sewing on our machines, I am sure that you will agree. It all starts with my factories. My factories goes above and beyond when finding sub-contractors to make certain items for our machines. There are "A" factories, "B" factories, and "C" factories in China. You can be sure that you are getting nothing but the best when purchasing a COBRA machine. I know first hand that this is not the case from other companies. Price is no object when I purchase anything, and everything from our factories. The only thing that matters to me is quality. I have no choice but to be better than the competition to stay in business. I will NEVER cut corners when it comes to my customers. Tony, my mechanic is the best in the world,

(and I mean the world) at what he does. He has literally set up over 1000 machines to do what they are supposed to do. He is the best. I urge you to really consider these facts before buying:

1. The quality of our factories.

2. Our mechanic (Tony).

3. Our customer service (Steve)

These are the main reasons that set COBRA machines apart from others, and remember...after the sale is more important than the sale itself, because after the sale goes on forever. In 6 months from now, if I can't help you on your machine, and give you the service that you deserve, then what are you going to tell your friends? You can be sure, they are not calling me. But if I take care of you and you are satisfied and happy, then your friends are calling me. Word of mouth is a powerful tool. and I intend to use it to my advantage. I promise you (and promises were meant to be kept), that I will not let you down for as long as I'm alive. Thank you, Steve

[Ken Nelson]

I got my new machine from Steve last week. This machine was set up and sewing in a very short time. It sews like a dream. His follow up has been super. Service is IMPORTANT, AND Steve is a standard for the industry. I have bought machines from Steve in the past and this machine is the best I have bought from him but the first from his company. I recommend him and his products highly. Thank you, Steve.

Ken Nelson

[jbird]

I have been working with steve know for a while he's awsome and better customer service you won't find.

Josh

Dusty Chap Leather

[Shorts]

I was that customer on a Friday afternoon - Steve patiently walked me through it all

[JoshDuvall]

I bought my first machine through Steve (Cobra Class 4) and I'm really glad I did. The quality of not only the equipment but also service has been outstanding. Any questions i've ever had Steve has patiently explained an answer and guided me through any set up I've needed help with and then even called back a few days later to make sure everything was going good. The quality of his machines are excellent and for these reasons, among many others, I will be going back to Steve when it comes time for me to purchase a lighter weight machine for chaps and bags and so forth. I highly recommend Steve and his machinery.

Edited August 21, 2009 by JoshDuvall

[Cobra Steve]

Thanks to all. Call me for anything. Your friend, Steve

[wyldflower]

I just purchased a Cobra Class 4 from Steve, my first machine. Steve has been outstanding. There was a little hitch with the shipping company and when I couldn't reach them I called Steve. He more than lives up to his reputation for taking care of you! I should also add that the shipping company also came through like champs. My new Cobra 4 has arrived, and I can't wait to try her out this weekend. And she already has a name (I name everything) - "Velma"

Thanks again Steve, you are the best!

Dixie

[electrathon]

I want to say a "thank you" to Steve too. He was at the Pendleton trade show this weekend. I brought in a machine that I have (not one of his) with a few questions about getting it sewing. He took the time to look at it and helped adjust on it. Nothing but helpful and was willing to offer and give free advise to someone who has yet to purchase from him.

Steve, again, thank you for the help. Rest assured when the time comes for me to step up to a real sewing machine you will be the first one I call.

Aaron

[Western Artistry]

Hello everyone! I have a few questions. I am looking into purchasing a Cobra Class 18 machine and was hoping to speak with someone who has worked with one. I have a Ferdco Pro 440 and I have had a few problems with it and wanted to see if it was similar to the Cobra. Firstly, I have had problems with the walking foot leaving marks on the leather as I sew it, sometimes they're so bad I have to scrap the project. Secondly, I have a hard time sewing certain things like rodeo chaps where there are delicate leathers on top of heavier ones, the lighter leather gets eaten up by the foot and it becomes scratched or deformed. Thirdly, for some of my more decorative work I need something that will use a smaller needle and thread, for things like spur straps and belts. If anyone has used the Cobra Class 18 and can tell me whether or not these issues are the same as my ferdco, please let me know! Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Blessings,

Morgan

[Cobra Steve]

Hello everyone! I have a few questions. I am looking into purchasing a Cobra Class 18 machine and was hoping to speak with someone who has worked with one. I have a Ferdco Pro 440 and I have had a few problems with it and wanted to see if it was similar to the Cobra. Firstly, I have had problems with the walking foot leaving marks on the leather as I sew it, sometimes they're so bad I have to scrap the project. Secondly, I have a hard time sewing certain things like rodeo chaps where there are delicate leathers on top of heavier ones, the lighter leather gets eaten up by the foot and it becomes scratched or deformed. Thirdly, for some of my more decorative work I need something that will use a smaller needle and thread, for things like spur straps and belts. If anyone has used the Cobra Class 18 and can tell me whether or not these issues are the same as my ferdco, please let me know! Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Blessings,

Morgan

Hi Morgan, we use the best presser feet available. We buff, and smooth both feet so they will not mark the leather. We also buff the feed dog so it too will not mark the leather, while at the same time, not compromising the ability to feed belt leather. You can use # 69 thread and a size 18, and in some cases a size 16 needle. If anyone else has something to ad, please do so. Thanks, Steve

[ALANMCKENZIE]

G'day Steve,

I was wondering if the class 4 machine will sew from chap leather through to several layers of skirt leather without any adjustments

In other words will it sew uphill.

Are they available with a 220-250 volt x50cycle motors?

And are you prepared to freight one to Australia.

Will it replace my Pearson#6 and my Singer 7-5.

Regards

Al

[Art]

Hi Al,

Sounds like a loaded question to me.

What is with sewing dollar bills to harness tugs on one machine? Most of the machines out there (of the large variety) will sew the complete range, it will just look like crap. Size 346 thread on chap leather is going to look a little big, or 138 or 69 on saddle skirts is going to look a bit puny. that being said, it can be done and assuming the lock is well placed for the chap leather, it will be good for the skirting. Sewing several layers of skirting with a #20 needle might push the envelope a bit though. The class 4 is however an excellent machine, made in a real sewing machine factory, not a toy factory.

They put adjustment knobs on the machines for the purpose of adjusting them.

The Pearson #6 and the ASE No.9 are probably the best machines ever made for stitching harness, unless they got themselves into a horrible mishap or were in some other way terribly mistreated, why ever replace them.

The Singer 7 is a remarkable old machine, in stock form more suited to canvas than leather, still, I would keep it around just to hold something down if nothing else, someone will always come around looking for you to sew heavy textile and it will be nice to have it there ready to go.

Art

G'day Steve,

I was wondering if the class 4 machine will sew from chap leather through to several layers of skirt leather without any adjustments

In other words will it sew uphill.

Are they available with a 220-250 volt x50cycle motors?

And are you prepared to freight one to Australia.

Will it replace my Pearson#6 and my Singer 7-5.

Regards

Al

[RunningRoan]

Steve,

I purchased a Cobra Class 3 machine from you this past summer. I know I haven't called, I haven't needed to. This machine has been an absolute dream! Very happy with my purchase!

[Cobra Steve]

Hi Al, I will ship one to the moon if you lived there! The COBRA Class 4 will sew from 6 oz. to 7/8 inch whatever. Yes it will sew uphill as well. They are available in 220V. I think you will need 2 COBRA Class 4's if you want to replace both of them.

(Ha Ha) Thanks, Steve

Steve,

I purchased a Cobra Class 3 machine from you this past summer. I know I haven't called, I haven't needed to. This machine has been an absolute dream! Very happy with my purchase!

Hi Heather, nice to hear from you and thanks for the plug. Call me if you need me. Steve

[ALANMCKENZIE]

OK.Art let me rephrase mt question so that you understand it!!

Remember you are the selfproclaimed expert!!!

Iff I am sewing up a saddle skirt ,and then later need to do some repairs on a pair of work ckaps ,do I need to make any adjustments to the machine.

Keep in mind I have only been using the singer 7-5 and the Pearson No 6 for about 40 years!!

And by the way the number 6 and the number 9 are like chalk and cheese.

I will be interested in your most informed(X spirt) reply.

Alan

Steve,thank you for your reply.

I will be intouch.

Al

[Art]

Hi Al,

Assuming you want to use the same thread and needle, and assuming you had the thread tensioned to put the lock in the middle of the skirting leather, you will probably have to back off the top tension a bit or the bobbin thread will most probably show on top of the thinner chaps. The larger thread and needle will probably look ok on the yolk attachment to the chaps, but for other sewing I think a smaller needle and thread would look better.

I prefer the No.9 here in the States, it is much easier to get shuttle parts than for the #6. The 6 is an older and somewhat better design (the old ones always are) and the stands are absolutely gorgeous. Whenever a manufacturer attempts to make something better and cheaper, they usually succeed at one or the other, not always true, but usually.

Art

OK.Art let me rephrase mt question so that you understand it!!

Remember you are the selfproclaimed expert!!!

Iff I am sewing up a saddle skirt ,and then later need to do some repairs on a pair of work ckaps ,do I need to make any adjustments to the machine.

Keep in mind I have only been using the singer 7-5 and the Pearson No 6 for about 40 years!!

And by the way the number 6 and the number 9 are like chalk and cheese.

I will be interested in your most informed(X spirt) reply.

Alan

Steve,thank you for your reply.

I will be intouch.

Al

[UKRay]

OK.Art let me rephrase mt question so that you understand it!!

Remember you are the selfproclaimed expert!!!

I will be interested in your most informed(X spirt) reply.

Alan

Alan, I'm not quite sure what you are up to here or what your personal problems with Art might be. I just know that your public comments just went a tad too far for my liking. If you want to PM me to explain I'd be happy to hear you out and act on any reasonable complaint you may have.

For the benefit of those who don't know, Art is not a 'self-proclaimed expert' he was simply asked (press-ganged is probably nearer the truth) to pick up sewing machine enquiries on this forum as his knowledge of sewing machinery is waaaay better than most of us non-technical leather folk. He gives a huge amount of his time free of charge to help you folks and doesn't need pointless unpleasantness in return. Now if you can all go back to playing nicely please, we'll carry on...

Ray

[jimsaddler]

OK.Art let me rephrase mt question so that you understand it!!

Remember you are the selfproclaimed expert!!!

Iff I am sewing up a saddle skirt ,and then later need to do some repairs on a pair of work ckaps ,do I need to make any adjustments to the machine.

Keep in mind I have only been using the singer 7-5 and the Pearson No 6 for about 40 years!!

And by the way the number 6 and the number 9 are like chalk and cheese.

I will be interested in your most informed(X spirt) reply.

Alan

Steve,thank you for your reply.

I will be intouch.

Al

Hi Allen

I don't know about the Cobra, but the Cowboy 7441 <cowboysew.com> or 4500 will sew from repairing Work Chaps up to Fender Skirts (and Sulky Traces, Panels, Bridles, Horse Rugs, Saddle Pads, Webbing and the like, without problem as I've done it all on my Machine without adjusting the Tensions. There are not many jobs that need special adjustment, although some will disagree. But that is how I have found the 7441 handles the work. So many Saddlers that now own them have reported the same to me also. Then there is the Saddler who rang me praising how good his 7441 was, so I asked him please tell me of any complaints you can think of? After a while he answered " it doesn't break Needles". He replaced a Clone 441 that he'd brought (for a lot more money) with our Cowboy 7441. Apparently he went through a packet of Needles a week with the clone, but had only worn out Needles with ours. Nice complaint to have isn't it. The Clone is still gathering Dust.

I sold my Pearson#6, 133K8, 7-5 and 45K25 as I didn't need them any more. Especially as none had reverse. With the modern Servo Motors and Speed reducers you can also have total control of the speed so easily. Makes the Job of the Saddler much easier.

I'm in Childers, Queensland. 07 4212641, so please feel free to give me a ring for any queries you may have. I've got to to say it "I love my Cowboy 441" It's the one Machine an Aussie Saddler needs in the Shop for new work and Repairs. I wish I'd had one in Shop 40 years ago. It would have saved a lot of Headaches. Especially as we've added essential accessories that are needed based on "Bench experience as a Australian Country Saddler and Harness Maker since 1961".

Kindest Regards.

Jim Beaton the Saddler who sells Saddlers Sewing Machines.

Sorry I'm not an X Spirt, just a Saddler!

Usually I sit on the Fence and watch the Battle rage with the X Spirts trying to sell more Machines than the other, but your comment tickled my fancy.

Hey everyone! Do you know the definition of an X spirt? X = unknown quantity, Spirt = Drip under Pressure.

Please may everyone Have a Very Happy New Year

[jbird]

Alan

I dont know you but Art is a expert and not selfproclaimed any way this site is for folks that are willing to act in a respectfull way I as a Member I do not feel that Art or any other member should be spoken to that way.

it is my hope that you will rephrase your question and aplogize Thank you.

Josh

Edited December 30, 2009 by jbird

[ALANMCKENZIE]

Alan

I dont know you but Art is a expert and not selfproclaimed any way this site is for folks that are willing to act in a respectfull way I as a Member I do not feel that Art or any other member should be spoken to that way.

it is my hope that you will rephrase your question and aplogize Thank you.

Josh

Iff you go back to my original question ,then read arts sarcastic reply,you understand why I burred up.

When you talk down to me you get what coming!!!!!!!!

Beaton from Queensland answered the question the way I was expecting it to be answered.

No bulldust,just straight up and down, honest,informative answer.

My 40 plus years of saddle making has got to be worth something!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oppology ,I'm waiting for it!

"ART

Marketplace and adult area Moderator &

Sewing machine EXPERT" Now tell me I cant read!

And just for the Record :-I am a Vietnam Veteran(Australian)

Edited January 6, 2010 by ALANMCKENZIE

[jbird]

Alan

i respect you for your labors in the war good on you.

As for the other I don't think art was trying to come off smug or in any way off handed, that having been said all things considerded let's not care on with this train of talk and shake hands and move on.

Best wishes Alan and Art.

PS how's the weather in the land down under.

Josh

[Johanna]

Just for the record, that wasn't Art bragging "sewing machine expert". I wrote that under his name.

Jim Beaton and Barra are also very experienced and geographically closer to you. They may have info more pertinent to your situation, Allan. I can say, having used several leather sewing machines, that there is no such thing as a "one size fits all". Most shops have two or three machines, and they use them for different purposes. There may be a machine that will do most of what you want it to, and the best way to find out is to talk to the dealers and ask, take notes and do your homework. Besides the price and what the machine will do, consider the after-sale service you can expect, the availability of spare parts, and the quality of the machine itself. Since you have been a saddler for 40 years, you know what you want and what you expect to do with a new machine- and that will be a big help to the dealers when they answer your questions.

Johanna

[barra]

Alan. I have read and re-read the entire thread a few times and to be honest I am struggling to find anything sarcastic in what Art has written. Having said that I think most would agree that sometimes meaning can be lost in the written text as the communication associated with face to face interaction is lost. Obviously you have found something in his text that you found to be off putting so I think this is one of those occasions where we should agree that something just went astray.

As mentioned Art is not the one who annotated sewing machine expert on his profile. Since virtually the inception of Leatherworker.net Art has given freely of his time in an effort to assist people with many sewing machine questions and was always the go to guy for advice.

I am by no means a sewing machine expert nor sewing machine mechanic by any stretch of the imagination, I am just someone who has had 30 odd years in saddlery and ADF textile workshops who can sew. I am handy with the range of machines that I have worked with, 132K6, Pearson #6, Pfaff 545 and the 1245 variants and can usually rectify the usual range of glitches.

Even tho I am officially the sewing machine moderator, I will still defer to others like Art who have knowledge on aspects relating to various machines I have never even heard of.

Lets all move forward and return to some good natured, friendly banter.

Barra

[esantoro]

I misunderstood. I though Art was an expert in Adult Content and was going to ask for some pointers. For example, what's that little thingamajig.....

On another note, Having multiple machines seems to be the best way to go. However, I have had some luck getting my 441 to go from 1.5mm to 1". The thicker applications is a no-brainer.

The thinner applications require a bit of tinkering: ratcheting down presser foot pressure, raising the needle plate a tad with leather washers, holding thin leather firmly against the needle plate, etc.

One of the things that has worked very well for me -- yet no one has corroborated the method -- is the removal of the spring inside the bobbin case (I've posted elsewhere on this). This spring puts a bit of pressure on the bobbin, pressure that I have found to be a tad too much for stitching thinner leather. The only disadvantage to this move that I can see is a potential problem of thread getting bunched up inside the bobbin-hook-shuttle area due to running the machine at 400 spi or faster and the bobbin spinning faster than the thread can be taken up due to the missing spring applying a controlling amount of pressure. I never stitch faster than even 100 spi, so this isn't a problem for me.

Again, no one has confirmed this move, but it has worked well for me. That spring should be easy to put back into place should anyone want to give this a try.

Ed

Alan. I have read and re-read the entire thread a few times and to be honest I am struggling to find anything sarcastic in what Art has written. Having said that I think most would agree that sometimes meaning can be lost in the written text as the communication associated with face to face interaction is lost. Obviously you have found something in his text that you found to be off putting so I think this is one of those occasions where we should agree that something just went astray.

As mentioned Art is not the one who annotated sewing machine expert on his profile. Since virtually the inception of Leatherworker.net Art has given freely of his time in an effort to assist people with many sewing machine questions and was always the go to guy for advice.

I am by no means a sewing machine expert nor sewing machine mechanic by any stretch of the imagination, I am just someone who has had 30 odd years in saddlery and ADF textile workshops who can sew. I am handy with the range of machines that I have worked with, 132K6, Pearson #6, Pfaff 545 and the 1245 variants and can usually rectify the usual range of glitches.

Even tho I am officially the sewing machine moderator, I will still defer to others like Art who have knowledge on aspects relating to various machines I have never even heard of.

Lets all move forward and return to some good natured, friendly banter.

Barra

[Katy]

Well I finally took the plunge and purchased a Cobra Class 4....... I have to say reading all of the posts on this list about the quality, service and Steve's reputation is what made the decision.

Talking to him on the phone was a pleasure and a pleasure to deal with. So it won't be until sometime in February that my machine will be shipped. But it is paid for )

I chose this thread because I do have other leather sewing machines. I was going to sell them to raise the money to get a new one but.... thought I should wait until I am familiar with the Dream Machine to see what I don't need anymore. Probably will hang onto the Singer 29-4 as you can really get into tight spots. My American Straight Needle makes such a beautiful stitch I want to see if the Cobra can actually match it. Any comments appreciated on comparison. I also have a 3245 Commercial Singer Carpet Sewing machine that takes a 180 and 200 needle, walking foot, adjustable zig zag and straight locks stitch that I've used for repairing truck nylon binders and anything else that will fit under the 1/2 lift.

Then I have my other flatbed is a commercial, Singer 241 lock stitch that I use to make chaps but has no problem doing 3/8ths leather stitching on reins and spur straps too. I do make a lot of Rag Rug purses and lately Bertha (3245) has been throwing a hissy fit about it. I seam up all of my rug selvege hems all the time.

I'm hoping I can clear out some machines and make more room in my shop. I've heard nothing but good things about the Cobra basically doing it all. But seeing is believing I guess. Didn't want to give up any of my babies and then be sorry for it.

Anyway nice to read all the wonderful posts. I learn a lot here.

Cheers,

Katy

On another note, Having multiple machines seems to be the best way to go. However, I have had some luck getting my 441 to go from 1.5mm to 1". The thicker applications is a no-brainer.

The thinner applications require a bit of tinkering: ratcheting down presser foot pressure, raising the needle plate a tad with leather washers, holding thin leather firmly against the needle plate, etc.

Again, no one has confirmed this move, but it has worked well for me. That spring should be easy to put back into place should anyone want to give this a try.

Ed