The 301's are terrific and yes, better than the featherweight, feed dogs drop, motor is enclosed -it's gear driven and not
belt driven , the slant shank brings your work area closer to you....I could go on. I have a tan long bed and short bed, 2 LBOW (light beige oyster white) only made with the short bed, 3 black long bed and 1 black short bed. That makes 8. The LBOW makes it easier to see the work area.