I just bought a 1951 black 301 shortbed and then found a 301a shortbed in cabinet....Love them both...My singer maintanance guy told me you can't beat the 301 it's the best machine they ever made...better then featherweight which he says is overrated...The 301 purrs and what a straight line...Thanks to all you quilters talking abt the diff machine and showing photo's I went on the hunt...and am I glad I did....