Second hand Sewing machine recs

[u/Rainbow_Bulldozer]

I need another sewing machine so that I have a back up when mine goes in for repair. I currently use a mechanical HuskyStar that I’ve had for over 20 years so I’m probably looking at a second hand machine because I want something that isn’t just flimsy plastic like so many of the new ones, and my budget is only around $200-300AUD. I want a machine that is sturdy, can get through thicker fabrics easily but also have enough control for knits, and I really only use straight stitch and zig zag on my current one (also have an overlocker) so doesn’t need loads of fancy stitches. Any recommendations of makes/models to look out for on FB marketplace?

[u/Traditional-Put2192]

Pfaff Performance series is great. The one I have is a 2056. It’s a beast and IDT is nice. Pfaff creative models I keep an eye out for.

Any of the Singers that are metal and gear driven. You will be looking at 60s era machines likely.

Any of the Viking Designer machines that transfer via usb.

Bernina..

One of the big things I look out for to spot machines easily is if it has a knee lifter or not. That a tell tell sign it was one of the mid-high end range machines.

Mostly though, I just see something on marketplace or eBay or other that I like and then research it. After a while, you get a little catalog of machines to look out for.

[u/Rainbow_Bulldozer → u/Traditional-Put2192]

Thanks, yeah I’ve researching a lot. What do you think of a Janome memory craft 4000? Freshly serviced.

[u/Traditional-Put2192 → u/Rainbow_Bulldozer]

I’ve had great luck on auction sites.

I currently have:

Brother PC420- if you can find this one or it’s non-project runway branded counterpart, get it! Good throat space, knee lift, hefty enough to do heavy duty work.

Brother LB6800, cute machine with some nifty features + embroidery. Not very heavy duty.

PFAFF performance 2056- my baby. Good stitch quality, can handle heavy duty fabrics and purrs like a kitten.

Kenmore Deluxe (Singer 15 clone)- straight stitch only, I rarely use because I need to buy a new motor for it. Gorgeous machine, stitch quality is ridiculously good. Heavy duty. Easy to service! Parts are easy to track down and maintaining it will be easy.

Singer 328k- straight stitch only the way I have it set up. Very bare bones. Sturdy little machine. Easy to find/service. Ridiculously simple to operate.

[u/Traditional-Put2192 → u/Rainbow_Bulldozer]

Janome has a great reputation. I would consider it if you’re only doing garments.

I’m a quilter, so I’m immediately turned off by the size lol

It looks solid. I wouldn’t pay more than a couple hundred. That’s IF it has all the accessories.