Help! Newb Question About A Pfaff 545 And It's Suitability

[artificer13]

How much thickness of leather do you intend to sew? What size thread will you be using the most? What are your primary sewing projects going to be?

Things to keep in mind are one of the two machines you mentioned is a production quality machine and the other is more of a prototyping machine.

Most of what I make is one-offs (custom work).

I primarily make sporrans right now (everything from standard regimental day bags to recreating Victorian horsehair and fur bags), but am branching off into steampunk harnesses, belts, holsters and 'respirator masks'

My materials vary from kidskin on 6oz veg-tan, double 5oz chrome tan, up through (with some of these newer projects) 2 layers of 8-9oz harness or bridle leather.

I doubt I'd go above the 7/16" limit on the cowboy.

Right now I do everything by hand with waxed thread that probably runs 346. I like visual effect of the heavy thread. I don't think I'd ever use anything below 207, but I do like the Boss' capability to go lower.

[Wizcrafts]

The Cowboy CB2500 uses a needle system that begins with number 22/140, which is suitable for #138 bonded thread. The Boss uses system 794 needle which begin with a #19/120, suitable for #92 thread. Both use a similar shuttle and bobbin.

As for punching power, the Boss relies on your right arm to punch through the material, stitch after stitch. The Cowboy gives that task to a powerful motor.

The CB2500 has feed dog drive a static presser foot, but has an optional big roller foot if needed. The Boss has needle feed, with a jump foot.

The CB2500 has a 10.5" area between the body and needlebar. The Boss has a bit over 6 inches inside clearance.

The Boss has an aluminum casing and some gears are aluminum. The CB2500 uses steel gears and has an iron case. Magnets stick to it.

The Boss is portable, if there is a bench to bolt it to. The CB2500 is not portable.

Both machines can handle #346 thread. Needles are available in both systems.