iknowthisguy13 Report post Posted May 17, 2015 Hi all, I am learning that selecting a leather capable sewing machine is no small task. I currently make holsters and got far enough into the research to understand that a jump feed system is likely my best option. Does anyone have recommendations for current models? Budget minded or investment minded options are both good. Any feedback is greatly appreciated. Thank you, -Joe Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Andrew Chee Report post Posted May 18, 2015 For holsters there's really only one choice out there. A Juki 441 clone. So a cobra class 3 or 4, cowboy 3500-4500, or Artisan Toro 3000-4000. All pretty much the same machine. Andrew Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wizcrafts Report post Posted May 18, 2015 (edited) Prior to getting a Cowboy CB4500 (16.5" arm), I used a Union Lockstitch machine to sew holsters. They can sew 3/4 inch out of the box and have a jump foot and needle feed. Related, are the Campbell-Randall lockstitch machines, which have jump feet and awl feed. But, I would not recommend these machines to anybody without lots of experience with setting up, adjusting and rebuilding sewing machines. A 441 clone is so much easier to run and maintain. It will have triple (compound) feed, a smooth feed dog and is able to sew over 3/4 inch with very heavy thread. It is a holster maker's machine, no doubt. See the ads on the top of the page for our supporting dealers who sell and service these big leather stitchers. Edited May 18, 2015 by Wizcrafts Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Art Report post Posted May 18, 2015 Joe, There are probably more holsters make with a Campbell, or a Union Lock than any other machines. They are primarily used by manufacturers as they have huge bobbins, and generally will sew anything. That being said, custom makers use the 441 clone machines or the Adler machines, probably more 441 clones than Adlers. As modified by a few of the distributors, the 441 are particularly setup for holsters. Cobra, Cowboy, Artisan, Techsew, and Highlead are the names that come to mind. They are set-up with special feet specifically designed for the task. Several of these machines are made in the same factory. Quality is definitely there but the dealer does quite a bit of work to get them right for leatherwork. The Highlead machines are more expensive, but the three that I have (one gets abused beyond belief) have been excellent for years with very few problems (generally operator induced). Get a machine with a 16" arm, the smaller arm machines are cheaper, but you can get more and larger stuff into the longer arm. Get the 25" if you can afford it, but the 16" will do just fine. Go with Bob Kovar at Toledo Industrial Sewing Machines if you are in Omaha, machines are great and he is closer if there are any troubles (there generally aren't any). If you are up for a road trip, pay them a visit and learn to sew on one. Art Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
iknowthisguy13 Report post Posted May 18, 2015 Thank you all for the advice! Sometimes it is just so much easier to ask. Thank you, -Joe Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Greywolf Report post Posted June 8, 2015 I have been studying the various manufacturers and there products, and those who endorse them and I find that for the money a super cobra class 4-25 is the most versatile and great quality machine, and easy to use. The leather machine company is also known for great product support which I believe is one of the most important factors in buying any machine! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
