Techsew/Cobra

[gmr10d]

Hi All,

I've seen a couple threads where people compare and contrast other machines with either the Techsew 810 or Cobra 5110. I'm looking for comments from people that have experience with both. 

I realize that they are based on the same clone, but I'm wondering if people have better experiences with one or the other with respect to quality control, customer service or general operation of the machine

5110 is $1975 and the 810 is $1595.

I will be sewing boot uppers.

Thanks!

Edited November 9, 2019 by gmr10d

[kgg]

I don't have experience with any post bed machine but looking at the specs for both machines the Cobra can handle V92 thread while the Techsew can only handle V69. I guess it is going to come down to what maximum size of thread you are planning are using now or in the future. This may mean that neither of those two machines are going to be suitable for your needs. I feel that the heavier a thread a machine is rated to use, the more robust the construction.

kgg

[gmr10d]

1 hour ago, kgg said:

I don't have experience with any post bed machine but looking at the specs for both machines the Cobra can handle V92 thread while the Techsew can only handle V69. I guess it is going to come down to what maximum size of thread you are planning are using now or in the future. This may mean that neither of those two machines are going to be suitable for your needs. I feel that the heavier a thread a machine is rated to use, the more robust the construction.

kgg

You know what, that actually does help me. The Cobra accepts one size higher thread than the Techsew. I'll be sewing mainly with size 69, but the Cobra can go up to size 92. 

[Constabulary]

Both machines seem to be based on the Mitsubishi BP-810 and I seriously doubt there is a tremendous quality or technical difference. The cobra seems to have a "modern casting" whereas the Techsew is rather an older style casting (but who cares). I think they are most likely technically "quite" identical - if you find parts list of either machine just check them. I guess (guess!!!) the major difference is just the casting.

To give you an idea how "810 type post bed machines" can look like:

https://www.google.com/search?q=810+post+bed+sewing&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjViK-j_97lAhUtsaQKHa7CBgMQ_AUIEigC&biw=1280&bih=869

I bet my (snooker) balls both machines are using the same hook, needle plate and feed dogs and so forth and these parts are available dirt cheap - so cheap its even worth to modify them (for your needs?)

I just recently bought some random "810 type" parts for the restoration of my old 1930´s (or even earlier) Singer 51w sewing machine w/o knowing if they would fit at all and I can tell you they fit well and I can even run 138 thread with one set up (needle plate feed dog combination). The point is these machine never were meant to run a "rather thick thread" because the application they were designed for required a rather thin thread (usually sewing shoe uppers and the like) but that does not mean that they can not handle thicker thread as well. With other words I honestly think that both machines can run #92 thread maybe even thicker.

You may consider the Cowboy CB-810 as well...

My 2 cents.

 

Edited November 10, 2019 by Constabulary

[Mark842]

I never done business with Techsew so I don't know how their customer service is . I have several Cobra machines and their service is top notch. There is actually a FB forum (Tips and Tricks with Cobra Class Leather Working Equipment) ran by two guru's that have the knowledge and contacts with the Leather Machine Co to keep you up and running. The very few problems I've had over the years, I went to that forum, put up a post describing the issue, and within minutes had help from one of the two guys running the page. Sometimes we sorted it out on FB and sometimes I called them and they talked me through the issue live. All times I was up in running in a short amount of time. Because of that forum and the custom service I've received directly from LMC, I'll always shop there first unless they don't have what I need.

 

 

[Wizcrafts]

Cobra, Cowboy and Techsew all offer roller foot post machines with either bottom feed only or driven top and bottom feed. I own a Singer post machine that has triple feed walking feet and can handle #207 thread. That's great for the repair work I do, but not for shoe uppers where 100% visibility of the needle is required. Nothing beats a roller foot for needle visibility. Because roller machines were meant for precision sewing they rarely are able to tension or clear heavier thread than #69 or maybe 92. The clearances are purposely set very tight for small needles and thread to sew tiny, perfect stitches into shoe uppers. Some roller machines are preset to sew 25 to 32 stitches per inch with a #9 or #10 needle and #33 thread. You can't expect such a machine to also accept a #19 needle and #92 thread.