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Old 08-19-2018, 08:11 PM
memphisrain memphisrain is offline
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Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Plainwell, MI
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Chris Rusche, who designed the Baleigh power hammers, is a pretty accomplished metal shaper, and his designs have a lot of input from Mark Gerisch, who is a master.

The machines change from power hammer to reciprocating hammer very quickly by simply sliding a pin in and out. Dies are also changed quickly with a couple pins.

Are they worth $30-$50K? That's up to the purchaser, I suppose. If I were a pro, I certainly would consider it. I know it's heresy to some, but from the limited time I've used both, and coming at it from a unbiased position, they're WAY more convenient than a legacy machine like a Yoder or a Pettingell. Die changes are a breeze, and the hit and stroke can be dialed in in seconds without any tools. I think the reason people who own them also have a Pullmax is one time and efficiency, but also the throat depth on the Pullmax.

Not everyone has the time, ability, or desire to build their own machines. If shaping metal is your business, it's probably not worth your time to spend 2-6 weeks building and dialing your machines in. I'm pretty sure Baleigh has nice financing options and they're a great write off on your taxes.
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