mat cutter recommendations?

[Bote Loco]

I have been looking at info for Logan, CH & Fletcher mat cutters. This is for small use application (5 pcs/day avg). I would like a quality tool, and not a frustrating toy. However I certainly don't wish to overspend. Also, your opinions on used equipment? Thanks for your help!

[JRB]

Hi Bob, welcome to the Grumble. This subject has been covered many times over the years on this forum. Myself, I prefer the Fletcher for hand operated cutters. I would sugest you look this up in the archives, it contains a ton of usfull input on hand operated cutters.

John

[Kris Casier]

We distribute both Valiani and Fletcher in the Benelux (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg). I can recommend both of them. The machine you might have a look at is the Fletcher 2100 ( http://www.fletcher-terry.com ) and the Valiani Astra ( http://www.valiani.com ). Both are top quality products.

Good Luck!

[fttom]

Bote, for what you want, go for a Logan 750. They are not expensive. You can get a new one for around $250 or less. It's easy to operate. Will cut straight, bevel, and glass, if you buy the extra cutters. I used one for over 10 years in my shop until I upgraded to the 650. Look on ebay, and you can get a real deal. This is an idiot proof cutter of quality that will do for a small shop with small volume.

[Grumbling Mike]

The C&H and fletcher are much better than the logan(imho). I find the Fletcher uncomfortable for a lefty so I vote for the C&H
After a few years you will realize the value

[AndyPan, CPF]

We have an Esterly SpeedMat system on our shop. When we first looked into opening the shop, I told Mike that absolutely, positively, if we were to get anything brand new, it would be the SpeedMat. I used a 32X40 version for over 5 years at the place I was working, and although it took a little time to learn the basic operation, and the "formulas", it is by far the easiest mat cutter I have used. I can literally do a 10 plus opening mat in about 5 to 10 minutes, with no ruling lines. We have a 40X60 SpeedMat for our shop, with all the accoutrements (sp?). Granted I can not cut the funky mats that a computerized mat cutter can, but I can efficiently cut multiple openings, V-grooves, ovals and circles, and even oval and circle V-grooves. Reverse beveling is a breeze as well. As far as speed, a single 11x14 mat, say, can be cut in less that five seconds. So it's perfect for production jobs.

I have used the Fletcher and C&H cutters, and they are okay. But for the versatility we have with the SpeedMat, we are quite satisfied with our investment.

[fttom]

I looked at the Speed Mat one time, and wondered how well it worked. I just never could find anyone who had actually used the thing. I may have to give it another look. It sure would be cheaper than a CMC.

BTW I stick by my Logan. I absolutely hate the C&H. Two places where I worked before had them. I truly hate them.

[ 02-14-2003, 05:20 PM: Message edited by: fttom ]

[Bote Loco]

Thanks for your help!! I think I will go w/ 750. Sounds user friendly. Will use to mat personal photo's for shows. (Bote Loco is the name of my boat) Dave

[jvandy57]

Originally posted by Bote Loco:
(Bote Loco is the name of my boat) Dave Ya spelled Boat wrong!

[Ron Eggers]

Bote Loco is the name of my boat That explains how it is you can live on Lake Michigan.

[CharlesL]

Welcome to the G, and just be glad your boat isn't named "Sailbad The Sinner".
We have a Fletcher 2100 and love it! Built like a tank, and everything is adjustable, AND everything stays adjusted!!

[Gerard]

I have a logan 750 that I would sell for $200. Used about 5 times. I bought a Valiani and just love it.