Anything over 18" is considered a long arm. I own the Nolting 24" PRO, love it (only quilt for myself). Most dealers have used machines as do the manufacturers. You need to haunt the APQS forum, MQG forum and on yahoo the groups of Nolting, MQSG and any other longarm groups. That's where you'll find the deals. Go to shows, you can always get a deal and ask about used machines. Don't be afraid to buy used .... dealers give you a warranty. Good Luck