Back stitch capability - how critical?

[plinkercases]

I am looking now at 2 machines. Both heavy duty cylinder bed walking foot machines but the less expensive does not have reverse stitch and the more expensive does. Same manufacturer and almost all specs the same except for the back stich and a few other bells and whistles in features or accessories.

On my table top I just back it up a stitch or two by hand if I can't spin the work to run back over it a little.

I am not a production maker as of yet but would like to buy a marine that will serve me now and when I do semi-retire and am ideally making more pieces.

QUESTION - In your experience(s) how critical is the back stitch ability when making belts, holsters, sheaths, cases/pouches?

[garypl]

It’s a handy feature, but I sometimes punch a few holes with the thread pulled out from the needle, then thread and start stitching 3-4 holes from the start, leaving 5-6” of thread at the start and ending the same way.  Then I use two needles to saddle stitch the start and end.  This should provide a stronger stitch than machine backstitching, but does take more time.

Gary

[plinkercases]

Just now, garypl said:

It’s a handy feature, but I sometimes punch a few holes with the thread pulled out from the needle, then thread and start stitching 3-4 holes from the start, leaving 5-6” of thread at the start and ending the same way.  Then I use two needles to saddle stitch the start and end.  This should provide a stronger stitch than machine backstitching, but does take more time.

Gary

That's a seriously strong technique... you could even back stich the saddle stich one or two holes for real holding power.

[garypl]

1 minute ago, plinkercases said:

That's a seriously strong technique... you could even back stich the saddle stich one or two holes for real holding power.

I didn’t mention it, but I always backstitch 2-3 holes when ending a saddlestitch - do the same here!

[DrmCa]

For leather backstitch is not absolutely critical, but it is a huge time saver for textiles.

[plinkercases]

6 hours ago, DrmCa said:

For leather backstitch is not absolutely critical, but it is a huge time saver for textiles.

Thanks.