Is The Sailrite Ultrafeed Better Than The Look-A-Likes?

[@jakejohnson1378]

I've had several machines from all major brands and they have all broken down after moderate use within 2 years. I got a sailrite about a year ago and I just know it's going to last me a lifetime. There is nothing it can't sew through and it was designed in a way that will never go out of date.

[@SamuelLanghorn]

I like your bold prediction "never will go out of date" 🙂 just wait until our new friend ChatGPT will do the sewing for us.

[@moosepasshippie]

I owned a Consew CP206RL. The case was crap. The instuctions looked like a copy of a copy. There is absolutely no help from Consew with the function of the machine. Owning a CLSP machine made me learn the basics of sewing machine function and repair. Between the owning a CLSP and KZbin I was able to get it tuned and functioning properly. After 2 years I sold it and purchased a used Sailrite LZ recently. The Worker B motor is light years ahead of the standard motor, forward reverse knob function, and case are worth the cost. Plus, if I have a problem I can call Sailrite and get the problem resolved and they have the parts to repair it.

[@documetricsinc.6135]

The real question is "Is the Sailrite machine worth THAT much more?" Are the sewing experience, reliability and results that different? Can you tell the difference in the stitches in the end product? If you can afford a Sailrite machine, perhaps you should compare that to Juki, Consew or Pfaff, perhaps Yamata, machines.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

For me, yes, the Sailrite machines are worth what they cost. Your mileage may vary. Can you tell the difference in the stitches? If both are working correctly, of course not. The difference in the calories contained in a terrible frozen pizza are the same as in a delicious fresh-made pizza, too. The experience of obtaining those calories may be noticeably different. Some people will care about the difference in experience, some will not. Comparing the Ultrafeeds to any full-size industrial machine is an inaccurate comparison, and I have made this point ad infinitum in other videos. The Ultrafeeds are a PORTABLE walking-foot machine, and only compare to other PORTABLE walking-foot machines. Unfortunately, there is really only ONE portable walking-foot machine design, the one shared by Sailrite and all of the other brands making the same design. The portable walking-foot machine is remarkably capable, and can function in place of a full-size industrial machine to a great extent, but anyone shopping for a full-size industrial machine who NEVER needs it to be portable should NOT, in my opinion, by an Ultrafeed or any other portable walking-foot machine. It's like comparing a compact pickup truck to a dually - they're essentially the same, but with different capabilities and use cases.

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

My Thompson is still running. It appears to have high quality machining and assembly.

[@caduceus33]

After 10:47 worth of conversation, I decided I was not getting the comparison I had hoped to get. Only then did I see your comment of this being essentially a lecture, not something I really want or need!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Well, at least you tried!

[@colemine7008]

I just picked up a used knock off. It was sold under the Tuff Sew brand. I am apparently the third owner at this point. The man sold his boat and didn't need it anymore. It had served repairing sails on two other boats so I knew it was up to snuff for my needs. I am not going to use it for sailing but for building back pack sort of things. I did try to find a used sailrite but there just wasn't anything around. This was the only machine of this build type available. I paid 250 for it and I am happy with the performance so far. If I find myself using it more than I imagined I will upgrade to the real deal. Until then, I am thinking of painting it because that blue on the sailrite machines really has my eye. I am considering adding a cheap servo motor to it, similar to the one you had added to one of your machines or get the sailrite workerB motor to keep it portable (on the fence which way to go). All sailrite parts fit on it so I can invest in upgrade parts and they will all transfer over when I get a new shinny sailrite of my own. I've enjoyed your youtube work.

[@bbrachman]

Jason. I have been watching your videos for years. I have seen your opinion evolve during that time concerning the Sailrite machines. You did not wake up one day and say, I feel this way. An evolution. If I was going to buy a portable walking foot machine, I would buy the Sailrite with the Worker B motor. No questions asked. I mainly work with leather. (I still need to see more demos on sewing leather to be absolutely convinced) I do not do enough leather work to justify a new machine. (yet) But, if there comes a time when I need the extra speed and quality, then I will pull the trigger on the Sailrite. Your opinion means a lot to me. As a hands on 'sewer', that is why I regard your opinions as very valid. Thank you for your honesty. Thank you for your time.

[@pmgear]

I had an exact copy of the sailrite lz1, as well as the a real sailrite lz1, and the difference is in the tolerances and the motor. The knock off would sew but missed stitches and was very difficult to control the speed on it, it was all or nothing speedwise. I upgraded it with a bunch och parts from sailrite and that made it better but if you can, get a sailrite, makes the sewing process much more enjoyable

[@louparsons]

I own four industrial machines; a Juki DDL-8700, Juki DU-1181n, Chikon CK-8BL a SunStar cylinder-arm machine that could be the twin of the one in the background of Jason's intro, and I have a Sailrite LSZ with all the doo-dads, including the WorkerB motor kit that is still waiting to be installed. And a mid-70s Sears Kenmore free-arm. All of them get exercised regularly, and, every once in a while, they actually generate a return on my investment. The LSZ is a great machine for what it is intended to do. It is not meant to do the same work, at the same speed, nor for as long as a machine such as a Fabricator, a 206 RB, or a 1541. Nor are any of those machines capable of a zig-zag stitch, and they are not in any imaginable sense portable. To attempt to compare their respective abilities is a disservice to the machine and to Sailrite. Thanks to Jason for another good video, best wishes to you and yours, YMMV YVR

[@LandLockedND]

Well said Jason! Sailrite as a company is fantastic. Their service & support for the products they sell are unparalleled by anyone else in the USA for sewing projects. I am extremely happy with my LSZ machine, hot knife, staplers and snap tool, etc. just need the worker bee motor now. Keep up the good work. Thank you!

[@chucklenz9011]

I own a Sailrite Fabricator, and I love it...I've sewn edgeing on 1/4 inch plywood (with the proper #21 needle and it handled it quite well) I had purchased an Omega walking foot prior and it is terrible when compared with the Fabricator. If I could go back I would have purchased a Sailrite portable, but I cant so im stuck with this boat anchor. .

[@debraclogston9379]

Plywood? Where did you find a needle? I love looking at all kinds of nifty sewing stuff. Even if I can't use it.

[@chucklenz9011]

@@debraclogston9379 bought it from Sailrite and I used v90 thread. I don't know how to send u a picture but if I could... I used edging purchased from sailrite and the high torque motor went right through it, no hesitations no damage just go slow. No problemo!

[@alicearmen5601]

A friend is giving me an Alphasew, which I’m pretty sure is the comparison machine. It has a very cheap feel but it’s awesome I what it can do so I’m happy to accept it.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Free definitely helps me overlook any shortcomings lol. I'm sure it will be a useful machine for you, enjoy!

[@glpeacock1]

I bought a Yamata version and sold it because it was junk then I bought a new REX and it was no better. Sold the REX and purchased my LSZ1. What a difference in operation, fit, finish, and Parts availability! No question in my mind the Sailrite is the better machine. A little pricey but worth the extra cost. Any other high quality sewing machine will cost much more than the big box store brands.

[@orreznorre]

Bought an Barracuda 200ZW from unReliable and really regret it. Have only had problems with the machine and the company does not care after you bought the machine. The biggest problem is the play in the needle shaft, the play is so large that the needle tip can play 2 mm, which results in missed stitches and that it crashes into the hook. Will order needelbar and needelbar support from Sailrite and see if I can fix the main problem. And it is not possible to adjust the hook timing as it sits with a pin through the shaft. Really want to get the machine started as it sews very well the few times it has worked. When I get the machine in order, I will make a video on the machine and all the modifications required to make it working so people know what they are paying for. If you are going to buy a similar machine, check out Sailrite, also check used if you can not afford to buy a new one.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Thanks for sharing your experience, sorry it hasn't been a good one!

[@orreznorre]

​@@thejasonofalltrades I will probably be able to fix the machine, but it will cost time and money. And I would rather have spent the money on a company that cares about its customers. Luckily I have more machines, Pfaff 1212 and Singer 331K5 which are my favorite machines. Thanks for your videos, they create inspiration when the machines here at home have not been used for a while!

[@gmcxm211]

Hi I agree with you about 90%. I do have a Tuffsew with a 9" bed that I have used for a few years. The machine you displayed is junk, and does not reflect on the current production of these so called clones. I never had an issue with my Tuffsew. Nothing ever broke or came out of adjustment. I even sewn a plastic C channel to rubberized canvas for the m923 military truck. So in saying if you put the original motor and hand wheel back on your LS1 that they originally came with, paint the machines the same color, have a person who is not familiarize with either machine, could not tell a difference if they would spend a day sewing on these two machines. I think your opinion would be a little diffferent if you used the current production models. These machines can stand toe to toe to the LZ1 and LS1. Now are the sailrite's a better machine? No doubt, but for an entry level machine for people who are on a budgit , they won't be disappointed with these machines. Sewing machines are made to sew fabric and both do that very well. One looks better on the inside but it doesn't sew better than the other. I don't have a sailrite but sewn on an LS1 and I can't tell the difference as far as performance. Again a very good video as all of your videos are.

[@gmcxm211]

And to further say most first time buyers who buy these types of machines will upgrade to a full size industrialized sewing machine anyway. So why spend that kind of money on a sailrite machine that will end up in the attic or some closet.

[@iancornell141]

Ive been using a tuffsew for 4 years. Had a few little problems here and there but it was definitely worth the money imho. It goes through leather, plastic, cordura, skuba webbing, canvas, etc.

[@dreupen]

Yes, I agree! I purchased a New-Tech GS-607Z, Monster wheel crank, case, light, stand, all for $366 delivered. Over $1k less than the LSZ. The machine has been Working fine for a year and half.

[@gergemall]

Interesting, thanks.

[@someguy-vk5qj]

Great video. It's refreshing to watch such an intellectually honest and thorough presentation. Thank you.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

THANK YOU. It often seems that too few really get what I am trying to convey (maybe my fault, but I'm trying!), I appreciate hearing that 😁

[@1963mmaddog]

That's true, what you're saying about the clone machine. Is a act of a large cheaper? Just like one of your other. Describe us pointed out if you took the super b motor off and put the original wheel on. I think both of those machines would be tied. You're looking at the casting. But not with the actual rod's go through sure polished the casting. Don't mean anything that's what the Baron are doing inside the machine. But once again $,121500 on machine for a clone. Sewing machine between 4 and 500 dollars. A huge difference for basically the same machine. How about those apples? Take the work of the motor off the cell right and then try it. You'll find it will be the same. You said yourself, it works fine, try.

[@SBO1955]

Useful info and opinions. Same reason I only drive Toyotas and Hondas vs Hundai and Kia. I can't justify the new cost but I'll keep looking for a nice used Sailrite while continueing to advance my skills on my trusty old Singer.

[@Madshadowgolem]

Honestly, Sailrite stands behind their hardware. If it breaks they will support their warranty. That's more than worth the extra $. Any company willing to actually back their hard use hardware is the real deal. You don't last as long as they have if you put out junk.

[@fj60erik]

I would have loved to see you compare the Thompson zigzag you purchased from me with the Sailrite. I think that would have been a more apples to apples comparison. It was a good quality machine that served me well. I didn't have a need for a portable machine and for less than the sailrite I purchased a Juki 1541 with table. I do agree that sailrite provides a service to the sewing community through support and how-to videos, but it comes at a premium if you purchase any of their products. Smart marketing on their part.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hey there! Unfortunately, I had to sail that Thompson to help fund the new Sailrite, I wish I had them both at the same time for a comparison. Having had both a Thompson and a Sailrite Ultrafeed (both straight stitch) for years, and having used them both side-by-side, I can say that the Thompson compared quite favorably in build quality, and both of mine were excellent machines. The Sailrite is, in my experience, of at least equal quality, plus has the advantages of the significant updates like the stitch-length lever and the Posi-Pin. (This never made it to video, but when I installed the WorkerB motor on the Thompson, I was able to get the wheel to slip when trying to sew through thick layers of dense nylon. With the Posi-Pin that doesn't happen. That was a significant factor in influencing me to by the new Ultrafeed.) Thanks for watching!

[@RealGrubert]

I have an Ultrafeed. Great machine, but Sailrite is an awesome company for support, project material, and information. Very happy with my purchase.

[@pequodexpress]

A better comparison would be to compare both machines with the monster wheel installed. The fit and finish of the Sailrite is definitely better, but the basic Chinese machine works much better with the monster wheel attached. However, over time this will probably overstress weaker internal metal components.

[@louparsons]

I now have the WorkerB motor installed on my LSZ w/Monster wheel. After a lifetime of fixing other people's stuff for money I think Sailrite did an absolutely excellent job on designing and (honestly) packaging the WorkerB upgrade. They include all the new bits you're going to need, I didn't re-use anything other than the primary belt. Decent quality power cord. My only gripe, and not limited to Sailrite, is the vertical adjustment of the final drive belt tension. I substituted appropriate hex capscrews for the motor/controller mount, way easier to install and service. But considering the fairly serious currency exchange (currently $1 USD = $1.28 Cdn) rate I'm still glad I purchased the WorkerB upgrade. And it does do really slow stitching. YVR

[@thejasonofalltrades]

I'm glad you finally got it installed!

[@TerrydeAlaska]

I wish you could do a comparison between the Juki 1541 and the Sailrite Fabricator!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

I would love that myself! Not sure how I'd pay for it, though 😂

[@TerrydeAlaska]

@@thejasonofalltrades Maybe put it out to the universe (or youtube) and someone will invite you to come and try their machines and you can do a video... just a thought!

[@1979augistine]

Thanks for all the videos hope you and your loved ones have an amazing time over the holidays and new year

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Thank you, and you too!

[@OnRappel]

How often do you use zig zag stich? I was thinking I probably don't need the LZS because I can't imagine a lot of instances where I would zig zag with a heave machine like that.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! I use it quite often, primarily for bar tacks. My opinion is there is no reason to buy the straight-stitch-only version unless you absolutely can't budget the cost difference. Honestly, I sometimes wonder why Sailrite still makes the straight-stitch-only version. I don't know if there is any situation where the straight stitch of the LSZ machine is inferior in any way to the straight stitch of the LS machine. Even if you never plan to use the zig-zag stitch, it's always there if you one day decide you need it! It looks like the cost difference right now is $200. If that difference is too great, particularly if you already own a zig-zag capable sewing machine, then maybe the LS is the right choice, but if you're only going to have ONE sewing machine, I would strongly suggest the LSZ. For many years I only had an LS machine, and I used a machine like my Singer 237 for any zig-zag sewing. That worked fine, but it is far easier and better to just use my LSZ-1 now. I hope that helps, thanks for the question and thanks for watching!

[@Ctyworker]

Your right! Their customer service is why I buy their stuff! I own a boat and I just like to repair my own canvas. So I bought their machine. When I call they tell me what to buy and what to do! And it’s been working out perfectly. I get a kick out of these people that buy the knock offs and try to adapt Sailrite parts on them ! 😂🤣 this one guy bought the big balance wheel and had to use a giant pair of channel locks to tighten the thumb screw to get it to sew!! 😂😅

[@biomechanique6874]

Hi Jason, I got 11 minutes in and had to switch off. Sailrite took an existing design made in China and rebranded it. When it turned out to be short on promise they upgraded it. It has been incremental up to the current version with the WorkerB motor set-up. The standard original Chinese product is what you have there to compare which is much the same as the early offerings from Sailrite. It is pot-luck as to whether you get a good one or not even from Sailrite.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi, First, thanks for watching, although honestly it's a little hard to take your comment seriously if you can't be bothered to watch the entire video so you know what you're commenting on. That said, I am openly challenging you to answer one question, and I predict that you either won't reply, or your reply will not answer the question - please prove me wrong: You claim that "Sailrite took an existing design made in China and rebranded it" and " It is pot-luck as to whether you get a good one or not even from Sailrite." On what evidence do you base your claims?

[@biomechanique6874]

@@thejasonofalltrades I will watch the rest of your video but not today - it's Xmas Eve and I got baking to do. I have watched a good few vids on Rex and Sailrite portables and since Sailrite only do the 7" version I would not bother with it for the price. I have two industrial machines, one is a new Chinese computer direct drive 0303 style walking foot machine which I obtained directly from China at a third of the LSZ1 price. The other is an older Brother which I have had for years on a clutch motor and now have a servo motor to fit over the holidays. I seriously looked into the portables but could not recoup the cost of a Sailrite machine in a reasonable period of time. I have been a subscriber of Sailrite for five or six years now and somewhere in their uploads is the history of the portables development. Happy to prove you wrong dude.

[@biomechanique6874]

@@thejasonofalltrades Here is one of a few vids from people who got a dud. From the channel 'exploring land and sea'. Title is something like 'unboxing our Sailrite ultrafeed LSZ-1 Didn't go as planned'. I have come across a few more but that was back when I was looking. I suspect they had/have issues in their quality control department. PS your attitude would suggest you are cruising for Sailrite freebies...

[@thejasonofalltrades]

@@biomechanique6874 Thanks for replying, but you didn't answer my question, unless your idea of evidence is "I watched a few KZbin videos." The fact that you have two industrial machines has nothing to do with whether your claims about the Sailrite machines have merit. Sailrite's history of the development of the Ultrafeed is on their website, and is what I stated in the video. Your claim is contrary to that stated history, but you offer no evidence to support your claim. If you think a 7" throat is reason enough to not buy a Sailrite, that is a perfectly valid opinion (I don't hold the same opinion, but I grant that for some the larger throat might be advantageous). In case it's not clear, I'm not saying that you don't have a valid opinion - what I am saying is your comment makes specific claims that are not backed up by any evidence, and that is what (so far) every critical comment on this topic seems to be - unsubstantiated opinions from people who for some unstated reason don't like Sailrite and pretend to have some insight. You have proven nothing (I credit you for at least replying). I ask again, on what evidence do you base your claims that "Sailrite took an existing design made in China and rebranded it" (beyond what Sailrite and I have already said, that they used the Thompson design as a starting point once Datho's patent expired) or that " It is pot-luck as to whether you get a good one or not even from Sailrite." These are specific claims that should be able to be supported by some kind of evidence. If you have evidence of these claims, even anecdote, you should be able to say so. If you have no evidence for these claims, why are you making them?

[@biomechanique6874]

@@thejasonofalltrades I do wonder if you understand the concept of generic design? And I did my homework before deciding NOT to buy an Ultrafeed machine. The fact that I won't buy a particular machine from Sailrite doesn't mean that I don't like them - quite the contrary Eric, Matt and the crew are epic. Though there are more KZbin videos of Ultrafeed problems there are more away from KZbin. There is more to the Thompson history than you seem to be aware of but hey, your problem. I am probably not the only one that switched off around 11 mins. Maybe you should look at your content, format and presentation. Is one of your trades being a clown? It was really hard to watch you struggle with that servo motor - how you cracked that needle encoder is a mystery - you are hard to take seriously. Anyway that's more than enough for now. Seasons Greetings to you and yours 🎄

[@chrisprice5806]

-look at the pinned parts: shuttle driver, and theres a litle elbow that is attatched to that shaft downtheline. it holds timing but.. i dont like it. (e, i can replace aparts from sailrite) -many setscrews on non sailrites are flathead, prone to stripping -electronic pedals are absolute crap. carbon pile is all that works for brushed motors. rheostat pedals can be nice though those exist too -the finish is more attractive than colored machines because when people are creating they want a bland surrond that doesnt meddle with the work at hand. -you can buy from sail rite the stich plate. and it has no spring which is an improvement from the springed level sailrite uses because its reverse handsfree -yeah the tensioner is a fine monolithic eco style tensioner. it doesnt disasemble and maybe it would never break. i replaced mine but if i replaced mine again i would source not one from sailrite but rather like a metal.. even more legit one,, like from consew :/ -the setscrews on the non-sailrites are really not great and require a proper screwdriver and proper tourque. -i have a 9". its in a portable case. it feeds the same. that table you bought from them is chinese junk. the feed and feet(there is 2.5 seperat feet sets),, the whole buisness going on down there ranks below a dropfeed. the completly unique feed design (ok, bernina and others have their own walking foots too) isnt worth all the money sailrite asks for. the machine Is Only choice for like compact moreso heavy duty home sew style of thing. but even then the user is gonna be wanting a dropfeed with medium duty needplate+feeddog... and a 20U is a very good middle of the road. the sailrite is like 1300$. my machine was 600+150(worth of sailrite goodies). im not gonna support them at that $tune$ good vid Jason. you should look inside the industrial dropfeed machines sold on walmart and ebay that cost like 400$-600$(:/) i bet the insides of those look pretty gnar. thats probably why they only go to like 3000 rpm (my consew 7360 does 5500rpm). oh dude, i got a neddle positioner/servomotor setup.. its great. handles much like juki's industrial NPS servomotor($$$). not the same watts obviously but same great control. im working on some awesome backpack designs and when i get my next prototype ill send a vid.

[@eross21]

so I don’t have a need for zig zag stitching that I can think of. so I’m trying to decide between the ls1 and Lz1. the needle offset feature is what i am curious about. do you use it very often? is it work getting?

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi Eric, My personal advice is unless you absolutely can't spend the extra cash, buy the zig-zag. You may find that you will use it more than you think (I mostly use mine for bar tacks on webbing, but I have found it otherwise useful from time to time). More importantly, perhaps, it might have more mass appeal in the future should you find yourself wishing to sell it; even if it isn't worth a lot more on the used market, it might be the difference between it being sold, or not even being considered because the potential buyer is only looking for a zig-zag one. There are some potential advantages to a straight-stitch-only machine, like more consistent straight stitches (no "slop" in the mechanism) and better performance on thinner fabrics (due to a smaller hole in the needle plate). Neither of these are particularly compelling to me for these machines specifically. The first time a zig-zag stitch is exactly what you need, you will regret not buying the LSZ. If you were buying used or being given one (or again, if it's truly all you can afford), the LS is a fine machine that can be extremely useful, and that's what I used for years, but if I could only keep one it would definitely be the LSZ. I hope that helps! Thanks for the question, and thanks for watching!

[@fredygump5578]

Thanks! I was thinking that Sailrite just re-manufactured/improved the cheap/basic machines. I didn't realize that Sailrite is the original producer of this machine, and that the others are cheap copies. (Definitely buying the Sailrite.)

[@seb1363]

Great video. In my endless search for my first heavy duty machine, a lot of these knockoffs pop up. No thanks! LSZ-1, fabricator or Juki 1541s are my top 3 contenders. Really like the channel!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Thanks!

[@stevegorkowski3246]

I have the generic 9" with the big wheel and it works well for me. My understanding watching the portable hd machines over the years, the Tompson is a fork in the evolution of generic hd machine. 3d printers are much the same way. You just add 3rd party parts to the generic machine to match your needs or buy a high end unit with all the stuff ready to go. The big wheel Sailrite sells fits the generic units.

[@Harrybollox]

Great video, if I can I will go sailrite as portable would be really handy and in any case I have no room at home for a full size machine. However, Will it handle marine vinyl for a reupholstery project , that j can’t work out yet from reviews.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! The Sailrite Ultrafeeds are pretty much made for materials like marine vinyl. I would say the only possible limitation of the Ultrafeed compared to a full-size industrial is less throat space, so if you were recovering something HUGE that could be something you'd have to work around, but I've never had it be an issue for me. Sailrite has tons of reupholstery project videos on their channel, check it out, I think you'll find it will work great for you! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@troy9248]

Like your videos , I myself have a reliable barracuda , I agree that the quality of the parts in it are deffinetly rough & not polished , but the machine seems solid & works greats , I see you have a Yamata machine in the background , do you know that company also sells a clone of the SailRite!!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Thanks Troy! Yes, I am aware that Yamata makes a portable walking-foot machine as well. In fact, my Yamata is a clone of a Pfaff industrial machine. Unfortunately, the sewing machine world is full of companies all making versions of the same designs, and probably many are made on the same assembly line.

[@phoenix_NZ]

I bought the sailrite but in New Zealand it's expensive to get it over to here, good machine. The machine is a tool as all tools they needs to do the job required of them or they are worthless

[@mannymayer9250]

On the subject of fit and finish. Why does sailrite machines only have a stick on label on the front? I’m seeing the “knockoff ” machines also have the basic stick on label. Just look at singer, juki, pfaff etc. makes me wonder who’s the knockoff ?

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! I agree, the sticker is probably the worst aspect of the appearance of that machine. My guess is they have considered the cost of designing and implementing a fancier decal and determined it to not be worth the cost. I agree that the decal doesn't do the best job of selling one on the quality of the machine, but if one is put off by the sticker and missing all of the other obvious indications of higher quality (better finish, better machining, innovations in the stitch-length lever, FAR better motor, plus excellent customer support and instructional content), then a fancy sticker probably wouldn't be enough to sway one anyway.

[@AlexanderTES]

Thank you for the video. However, the price difference between the "original" Sailrite and "affordable version" is about 10 (ten!) times for me (including overseas shipping). I'm sure the original Sailrite is better in any way, But I cannot justify such a huge price difference to myself.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! I'm afraid I let my North American bias show through and didn't discuss that issue. I understand from folks I've spoken to in the UK, Australia and elsewhere that Sailrite doesn't have distribution channels there, and the shipping and import costs are extremely high. I wish they were able to meet the demand outside of the USA in a way that made it affordable to more people, but I definitely don't blame anyone for not wanting to pay up that much. I do believe the Sailrite quality is superior, and I'm willing to pay the 2-3x price difference I have to pay here, but I wouldn't pay 10x, either :) Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@documetricsinc.6135]

Sailrite didn't invent this design sewing machine either, they (along with help from Chinese manufacturers) all copied a prior design. Sailrite did make some unique improvements and provides unmatched customer service and support as well as a large and professionally produced library of instructional sewing projects.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

I'm not that electrically savvy, and Sailrite's website might have better info, but I believe this is a DC motor with AC power in.

[@grandmajuki]

Thanks for the video. My blue Sailrite arrives Monday!!

[@fryloc359]

"I will show you why I think this is a piece of junk" is all I needed to hear.

[@creativitybycarilyn6634]

I prefer the brand that made the investment, rather than the unethical brand that stole their design. Also, I prefer a brand that I know they will answer their phone and speak English. I have the Juki 1541S.

[@FourthWayRanch]

the barracuda is almost the same price, only a couple hundred bucks less

[@aldonalexander7178]

Video is a little old. Should I upgrade? Doing 500 to 1000 d cordura projects

[@mhansl]

You absolutely get what you pay for. Good vid.

[@clementihammock7572]

I got one of this China made knock-off walking foot, it work. But their workmanship is rough, sigh.....budget is playing devil. Oh man, I almost forgot you got long beard.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

LOL the beard will probably (maybe) come back one day. I can't keep my mind made up lol!

[@Farmfield]

I don't really get why Sailrite cloning Thompson in China is somehow more ethical (?) than anyone else cloning Thompson..? Or why Consew (Seiko?) cloning Singer is different to Juki or Durkopp doing it..?

[@stoneblue1795]

Sailrite has patents on casting changes and improvements that you can't see from the outside of the machine. Public information, you can search out the patents yourself. Sailrite improved the Thompson. Plus many of the bolt on's were improved or hot-rodded.

[@Farmfield]

@@stoneblue1795 First off, I'm pretty sure these aren't patents but registered (pattern?) designs - though that might not be differentiated in the US as it ys in Europe. And many manufacturers improved the Singer 111 in their "clones". But it's specifically the ethics part that I bugs me. Like it's ethical to start making a clone (improved or not) the same day the patents run out? I read somewhere that the unknown story of the sewing machine industry is 50 years of patent fight in courts around the world. Like Riccar cloning a Singer but adds their own zig-zag design which Singer used in some later model and just a ton of criss-crossing like that. The telecommunications industry has been very similar these last couple of decades as well... I can't say I feel an evaluation on ethics is the business of the consumer. Let the companies sort that out in court and instead rejoice of what their competition brings in new developments. 😁

[@thejasonofalltrades]

HiJohnny, First, I tried really hard to emphasize "my personal ethics on the matter," not what everyone should feel. I disagree with the idea that "ethics isn't the business of the consumer," we vote with our dollars and can either encourage or discourage what we find appropriate. My personal take on it is that if Sailrite just made a copy of the Thompson and did nothing else to improve it, innovate new things, add to the greater knowledge of the community at large, etc., then I wouldn't likely be a fan. The fact is they took the existing design (once no longer protected by patent) and have continually improved upon it (plus all of the other stuff I mentioned), whereas Rex, Reliable, Barracuda, et al, have (mostly) just continued to produce lower quality variants of the machine. (By improvements, I refer to the EZ-SET stitch-length/reverse lever, the Monster II wheel, the Posi-Pin, and the WorkerB power pack, although there are likely other, more subtle ones I'm unaware of.) I didn't get into the weeds on the gun analogy, but I think it's a great example. You can buy a very inexpensive mil-spec "AR-15," or you can buy a very, very expensive mil-spec "AR-15." On almost all of them, the parts interchange. What's the difference? Generally, the difference is quality and/or innovation. Some companies have higher-than-necessary quality standards, some find ways to solve problems inherent to the design. Others just get the cheapest bare receiver castings possible and put the cheapest parts possible on them and call it good. I think you and I might share the same struggle with the ethics of copying a design at all - if you're going to make a product, why not just design your own from a clean sheet of paper? I suppose the answer to that is money. Regarding "rejoicing in what their competition brings in new developments," that's sort of the point - the only new developments are coming from Sailrite. Buying the other versions instead of a Sailrite rewards those companies who are doing essentially nothing to move the design forward, and hurting the one company that is doing something. Some may not care about this, but I do, so that's why I spend my money on Sailrite products. Just my two cents, though!

[@quademasters249]

@@thejasonofalltrades The point of patents was to give a company a temporary government granted monopoly on an invention to give them time to monetize it. Then when the patent lapses, the new tech falls into the public domain for anyone to use. It's intended to move the state of the art forward. It's not unethical to use something that's fallen into the public domain and attempt to make money from it. It's now OUR property, the public's property to do with as we please. Sailrite apparently has some patented additions to the clones they make. These patents are another temporary monopoly to allow them to make money on the invention. When the patent lapses, they too will fall into the public domain. No invention was created from thin air. All inventions are built on the shoulders of prior inventions. Sailrite doesn't deserve any protection beyond what the patents they've been granted give them. They've taken a clone of a clone and improved it. Good for them. They deserve money for the improvements but they don't deserve any protection from the other clones of clones that don't use their patented tech. You seem to be bending over backwards to say it's OK for Sailrite to clone a machine because they made it better but it's not OK to just clone a machine. From an ethical perspective, anything in the public domain is fair game to anyone.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

@@quademasters249 Everything I have to say in response to your comment is in my above reply to the original commenter.

[@GreyRose333]

Damn! I just ordered one of those cheapies, too.Oh well.

[@cm5838]

I bought a consew cp206rl in 2016ish I cannot even say it worked, 3” into the very first test stitch the needle bar connecting rod broke, very very poor casting of a part that should have been machined steel, . I bought from zameir or something like that in l.a. and they got me a replacement pretty quick. The machine was later relegated to only making piping as the walking foot mechanism is a terrible design with low hanging parts that interfere, something I see on the sailrite as well, plus just the way it feeds I did not like it . Speed control was not smooth and the screws it was put together with were incredibly soft and many had to be replaced. I ended up buying a consew 226 that was far better and now use a consew 206 r 2 , couldn’t ask for a better machine especially with a servo motor with needle position sensor. I’ll take one of those sieko consews over anything else

[@JC-vh7vy]

It really starts at 12:03.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

No, like every other video on KZbin, it starts at 00:00. If you don't enjoy the entire video, no worries, some people do and others don't. It's pretty lame to comment where you think the video starts based on your personal desires for how you wanted me to make my video so you will like it most. If you would like to hire me to make videos to your personal specifications, feel free to reach out and we can discuss my exorbitant fees.

[@paganpride464]

Good video I really appreciate it. Wish it came out a few weeks ago, though probably wouldn't have changed my decision. I just got a cheap Chinese one delivered last week. Really wanted a sailrite but they're not available in my country. Yeah they can send one here but the Chinese machine was not much more than what the sailrite's shipping alone would have cost. I wish I could have gotten the sailrite really but just couldn't justify the huge difference in price, not to start out with at least. I do like your comment towards the end about the cheap machine maybe leading to a future purchase of a sailrite. I think in my situation this might be the case. At the moment I just wanted a machine to make a few backpacks and bags for the family. If I like making those types of things then I'll probably get a sailrite in the future. I mean, I didn't start off with a nice vehicle or the one I really wanted either(rightfully so), but over time and experience that changed. Good video, thanks.

[@stevegorkowski3246]

Your machine should work just fine. Enjoy your new machine!

[@samhutson7966]

Keep up the good work!

[@bumblebeem5719]

Disappointed that this is a beauty contest video. No comparason on functionality? I just got my Sailrite LSZ-1, stitching is great but my friends on Facebook kept asking if it is an antique.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi, If you think differences in machining quality like this are a beauty contest, then I'm not sure how to communicate with you. There is evident care in the construction of one machine, and a clear lack of that same care in the other. We aren't discussing paint color or graphics. Literally within the first minute of this video, I specifically stated that they function the same, so there's no real point for me to show a couple of 5-second clips of both machines doing the same thing. One of my concerns about these lower-priced variants of the portable walking-foot design is whether they will perform well over time, and I don't have the time or resources to perform long-term testing to answer that question. I can, however, make judgements based on apparent quality of the construction of the machines, which is what I did in this video. The fact that your friends on Facebook ask if the machine is an antique only reveals that your friends aren't familiar with this style of machine, and says nothing of the machine itself. It isn't a sleekly designed, plastic-bodied, computerized machine; it isn't supposed to be. I once had a person doing some work in my home who thought my Sailrite was a piece of ammunition reloading equipment for firearms. This doesn't mean the Sailrite doesn't look like a sewing machine; it means that person didn't know what he was looking at, and the same can be said for your friends. I'm sorry that this video isn't what you expected, but the message in it is exactly what I intended to convey. Thanks for watching!

[@heidicook2395]

Thanks for sharing your opinion! I agree that just making kick offs is a poor ethical choice. And if they will knock off others products what other non- ethical behaviors are they engaging in? It kind of reminds me when President Clinton was being impeached his many people said integrity doesn't matter. It matters a LOT! And look where we are as a nation when voters starting thinking integrity wasn't important! If a person or business doesn't have integrity how can a person trust anything they say? Sorry for getting on soap box. Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@BEACHYz]

I have the "reliable" barracuda, branded model. It's absolutely the same as sailrite. Your argument about fit and finish, is not picky frankly. I don't know what models were genuinely licensed or even who actually owns the patents, but the "reliable" model is identical and the machine tolerances are the same. Before buying my unit in watched videos like this and decided to take the risk and I'm glad I did. Sailrite has done really cool innovations but it's definitely not worth the 1300 dollar price increase and you can buy sonogram those innovations and attach them to your lower cost unit. Mine is made in Taiwan. I think most are. Basically, they're all made in Asia lol. Also, it came with a clutch and step down wheel. When you tighten the belt you get a really controllable unit. Meanwhile Sailrite try to sell you a larger wheel that does the same thing are tightening the belt. I'm all for supporting American manufacturing. This is made is Asia. They all are.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi, With all due respect, pretty much everything you said here is wrong. Thanks for watching!

[@1963mmaddog]

I'm back again. I just wanted to say I have a Thompson s own machine. So why not buy the workabee moda? And put it on the Thompson machine quality machine. Sale right? Park bought the property to build their machine. Don't dare wish you. How much different is it from the Thompson? Why spend $1500 when you had 2 tops? In machine you have owned and you sell them. They're not clones.

[@david78212]

It's China, they have no issues with violating patent rights.

[@jeffcee9457]

You use a lot of i dont know but what i do know it works but nothing like the sailrite. If you are a one time user then its the way to go.Its not for every day uses once it breaks its garbage sorry

[@helli3088]

When all machines are copies or ripoffs and they all are produced in china it’s hard to defend a price point of 10x the cheaper alternative…

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! With all due respect, I disagree completely. There can be a HUGE difference between two identical-appearing products, produced in the same country, when one producer has a high standard of quality and another cuts costs at every opportunity. Apple products are made in China, and most would agree that they are premium products that exude high quality and that they generally perform very well. I'm highly confident that one could find sellers selling something that looks exactly like a MacBook (or iPhone or iPad, whatever) but upon closer examination is made from inferior materials, has inferior hardware, and doesn't function as well or last as long. The fact that both products look the same and are made in the same country (possibly even the same factory) is irrelevant to the question of whether one is a better product than the other. Whether the added expense of the better-made product is worth the additional cost to YOU is a decision you have to make. In this video, I am arguing against the claim that Sailrite sells the exact same machine as the other brands, and simply paints them red or blue and puts their sticker on it; this is clearly not the case (or at the very least has never been demonstrated by anyone, to my knowledge). I hope that makes sense. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@stoneblue1795]

Great subject matter. It's a shame that even Consew jumped on this band wagon. I have a 206RB-5 that is China-made and it's great, but it's only a clone of itself as they were previously made in Japan. Sad that Consew also makes or made a clone of the Sailrite. Things quite different in China, they think that it's somehow a flattering compliment to clone your stuff. Sometimes a different crew of workers comes in at some evening hour and they might spend the wee hours on the same tooling or machinery turning out the clones, but the castings likely are the sub-par culprit here, plus no care on concern for the fit and finish. Mr. Grant holds patents on his castings.

[@JohnMann858]

I agree with you on the Consew being an excellent machine as I have a 206rb-1 and love it. How ever the Consew is a clone of a Seiko STH-8BLD, albeit an excellent clone.

[@yannicnoack5389]

Link to official Pantents including inheritance of the Thompson from Sailsite: patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/c8/53/91/3d671496db354d/US6499415.pdf

[@timdybala7127]

Howdy from Western Colorado!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Howdy! I used to live on the front range and loved passing through the western slope on my way to Moab. Never did get to ride at Fruita, I hear there's some amazing mountain biking there!

[@stephenrobinson6779]

I might watch this, but the title is "Is The Sailrite Ultrafeed Better Than The Look-A-Likes?" Two seconds in is "Why I think the Ultrafeed is the best.." Takes some of the wind out of it I'd say.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi Stephen, I've taken some time before responding to this comment, because my initial response was to be somewhat harshly insulting. However, I'd rather build bridges than walls. So, I'd like to point out a couple of things in the hopes of us better understanding each other's perspectives. Please keep in mind, I'm just a dude with a camera and a KZbin channel, and I'm sharing my opinions and what information I think I know. You don't even have to pay to watch me. You should keep your expectations low. First, I acknowledge that one reasonable perspective is that the video's title could be seen as misleading, and my initial statement that I think the Ultrafeed is best is evidence that the video's title is at best inaccurate, and at worst clickbait. However, another interpretation, and the one I hope most people come to, is that before discussing the topic identified by the video's title, I clearly state from the beginning what my opinion is, so the viewer can know what my bias is, and how much weight to give to what information I present, BEFORE spending the 30+ minutes watching the video. (As opposed to actual clickbait, where the video teases the conclusion throughout the video without conveying any useful information until the very end - if at all.) I suppose I could title the video "Why The Sailrite Ultrafeed Is Better ...." Personally, I think having the title formed as a question is more alluring, and yes, the whole point of this operation is to have people watch the videos. But I don't think there is anything even remotely misleading about the title or the content of the video. I would like to point out that it's pretty uncharitable to watch "two seconds" of a 30-minute video, form an opinion, and post a critical comment in a public forum. I watch a LOT of KZbin videos; if a few seconds in I find something is not to my liking, I click the back button and move on with my life. If you are truly interested in the topic of whether the Ultrafeed machines are, in fact, the best versions of the portable walking-foot design (in my opinion, at least), then this video is one line of evidence you can use to come to your own conclusion. It's useless to you, though, if you only watch the first two seconds. Anyway, if this topic is of interest to you, hopefully you'll watch the video and find some information that you can use to draw your own conclusions from. If not, the internet is a spectacularly large and varied place, so I'm sure you'll find something that better suits you out there somewhere. I wish you well!

[@OmarRamahi2019]

Probably all these machines come from the same manufacturer

[@thejasonofalltrades]

It may (or may not) be true that all of the machines not manufactured by Sailrite might come from the same factory (or a few factories), I have no way of knowing for sure. Sailrite claims that their machines are made to their specifications in a factory that does not produce any of the other machines of this design, and no one has ever presented me with any evidence to contradict that claim. Sailrite's casting is patented and unique from the other similar machines. Since I don't have a budget to buy an example of every one of the other variants of this machine design, I can't compare them all, but to the extent I have been able to compare any of them, the Sailrite is of noticeably better quality. I hope that helps!

[@documetricsinc.6135]

30 minutes to say "You get what you pay for".

[@robertsmith616]

U sold me on the rex for the thousand dollars difference

[@robertsmith616]

Sailrite is a knockoff of rex rex started in 1957 sailrite in 1969

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi, When the companies were formed has nothing to do with whether one is a "knock-off" of the other. I have tried to clarify my position on this, but both companies (and many others) make variants of this same design, which as far as I am able to tell was originally designed by Datho Manufacturing and sold as the Thompson Mini-Walker. My position is that Sailrite makes a premium "variant" of the design, and all of the other variants that I have seen are made as cheaply as possible, and (other than some offering a 9" bed space) do not offer any design improvements to the original design (such as Sailrite has done with the improved stitch-length lever, WorkerB motor system, improved casting, etc.). Whether you, personally, find it more financially attractive to buy a Sailrite or not is entirely up to you. As I'm pretty sure I explicitly state in this video, I've heard from many people who have non-Sailrite versions of this design and love them, and I've heard from many others who have had terrible experiences with them. The marketplace has many options, so feel free to choose what is right for you, no one really cares if you don't like the same thing I do.

[@robertsmith616]

@@thejasonofalltrades when u call one a knockoff u left the impression that the other one was a cheat and taking an unfair advantage which was not true with that statement u were not making an assessment but an biased statement

[@pbayers]

First here!

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Winner! 😁

[@belmorecourt9937]

The first machine is manufactured in china

[@thejasonofalltrades]

They are all manufactured in China.

[@scottbeare2323]

Im buying a Barracuda 200zw. I tried to watch your video review but had to stop. You are claiming to compare two machines but every other sentence out of your mouth is “I dont know”. You apparently havent even used the machine to see how it performs. If you’re going to trash mouth someone’s product then at least be honest and do an adequate comparison. Not state every two sentences that you dont know. If you dont know then dont.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Sorry, man, I didn't make this video for you. Take care!

[@scottbeare2323]

So, who did you make it for?? You make videos to sit and watch yourself?? 🤣🤣🤣🤣. Seriously?

[@thejasonofalltrades]

​@@scottbeare2323 I made it for anyone who finds it useful to them. If you don't find it helpful, then it isn't for you. I have no idea what you expect from a KZbin video, so I can't possibly make it to your exacting standards.Thousands of people have watched at least some of this video, a couple hundred have liked it enough to click the "like" button, and so far only 19 have been sufficiently bothered to click the "dislike" button, so it would appear you are in the minority in your criticisms. I was extremely clear what viewers can expect in this video right from the top. I appreciate that you didn't find what you were looking for, I can't possibly please everyone. That said, nothing you said was constructive or helpful in any way, and you clearly didn't watch enough of the video to even be able to form an opinion.(From your comment, it appears you didn't watch at all, because your primary critique is falsified within the first minute.) I suggest to you that " If you’re going to trash mouth someone’s product then at least be honest and do an adequate comparison."

[@jakemoore3004]

Sale me you sailrite

[@debraclogston9379]

Paint don't make it go, kid.

[@MoreSplit]

also sailrite is piece of junk vs Juki Du-1181n

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi, The Juki 1181 is an industrial machine. It's a completely different category of machine compared to a portable walking-foot machine like the Sailrite Ultrafeed. Saying the Sailrite is a piece of junk compared to the Juki is as valid as saying "the Juki 1181 is a piece of junk because it isn't as portable as a Sailrite Ultrafeed." If you want to compare a Sailrite machine to the Juki DU-1181N, the Fabricator would be a more fair comparison; I haven't used either machine, so I don't know how they would compare with one another.

[@MoreSplit]

@@thejasonofalltrades kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4K7dX2Eh5KjmKc

[@MoreSplit]

juki 1181 is piece of junk vs FM366evo. without minimum FM366evo dont start sail business'.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

@@MoreSplit the FM366evo is a piece of junk compared to the John Deere 9560RT. Definitely don't start a farm with a FM366evo.

[@MoreSplit]

@@thejasonofalltrades yes for that reason every machine haw different purpose and usage,and all chinese machine is not bad or good.

[@seymourwrasse3321]

the Chinese factory will label them any way you prefer

[@rvierra7235]

Why on earth would you "shy away" from guns? It is not the gun, it is the idiot that is using it for bad. Same goes for a knife or a car. I could go on, but I wont. I think I have made my point. Our Constitution is a great thing. Embrace it. You make great videos, I would think many of your subscribers/viewers are outdoors oriented folks......I think you can see where I am going with this.

[@thejasonofalltrades]

Hi! I appreciate your input. I don't discuss guns much on the channel because I want to keep my (already very narrow) appeal as wide as possible, and there are people who are interested in my sewing content who are not interested in guns. There are also people who are not interested in my MINI Cooper, but the mention of the MINI doesn't tend to scare/anger people in the same way. Guns are a hot potato, and this channel is not my platform for discussing my thoughts on gun ownership. There are a number of topics about which I have very strong feelings that might make you unsubscribe if I talked about them; the problem is that my strong opinions vary so widely that I could quickly find myself talking to an audience of no one. So, while I appreciate your opinion on the topic, and I think you and I would find much to agree on if we hung out at the range one day, I ask you to understand that we all have to choose what we need to shout from which rooftops, and this channel is for me to shout to everyone about how great sewing is, and not a whole lot else. I hope that makes sense! Thanks for watching and commenting!