I'm itching for a vintage workhorse of a machine and thought to check out the 301's, but I'm not sure what the difference is and whether a longbed or a shortbed is better. Any ideas? Thanks!
Blessings,
MaryAnna

301s were manufactured in New Jersey, 301As were manufactured in Anderson, South Carolina. They are the same machine. As far as a short or long bed, I'd take what's available. I prefer sewing with my machine in a cabinet (which I'm looking for), so a shortbed is better for me. The longbed doesn't fit in a 301 cabinet.

The 301 is not a heavy duty machine as in industrial, but it is capable of sewing almost anything you'd need in a household situation, much more so than a Featherweight. Mine loves to FMQ. She is an excellent piecer, too. She's also light enough to take in public, which my other machines are not.

Thanks Irishrose! Anderson, SC isn't too far away from me...although I'm orginally for NJ.....so I guess it's meant to be either way! LOL!
Blessings,
MaryAnna

Ok here's the update..... all the 301's & 301A's that I was bidding on got too expensive. So it's taken this long, but here she is! This one wasn't as expensive as the others, but still over $100.00 but under $150.00. I had emailed the seller, who owns a refurbishing shop (sewing machines only) in a town about 1.5 hrs away from me. So I'm picking her up on Tuesday! I was looking for one that was either refurbished or totally serviced, and per the seller, this is refurbished & serviced & ready to go. She's not as 'pretty' as some I've seen, but I needed a workhorse and I love her stitches. She might be prettier in person, I'll post photos after Lucy arrives home.

Meanwhile here's some photos.

Thanks everyone for helping me out and sharing your vast knowledge! I love this board!

Blessings,
MaryAnna

She looks like a beauty.

Is that a 301A or just a 301?

Hey she is already refurbished-so take that into consideration about the price. Lots of people get great deals but then it costs alot to get them refurbished. So I would say you did GREAT!!!!
Congrats and enjoy her.

Kat

Thanks Kat! That's what I think...for $139.99, I've got a refurbished, smooth running machine that's ready for another 50z+ yrs of service. So, yes she's got nicks, etc on the outside...it's the inside that matters most, and her stitches are amazing per the photos sent! I can't wait to get her home!

Blessings,
MaryAnna

She's a Jersey Girl...born in NJ, so a 301!!! Just like me a Jersey Girl!!! But Living in SC! Heck, I've been here so long that they consider me a 'native'.

Blessings,
MaryAnna

Thanks pocoellie...I think she's a cutie and can't wait to get her home....Tuesday is the pick up date.

Blessings,
MaryAnna