I have RA too...the cutting system is much easier on the hands than cutting with a rotary cutter . I bought the Westminster pro from overstock but I think if I had to do it all over again I'd pick the studio, unless I get a handle on using the correct shim material to use go dies...mine cranks really nicely,doesn't bother my hands as long as I don't use too many layers. I use go dies, sizzix dies and can use most studio dies as well. I got it for 230
it is one of many things I need to use to make quilting easier on the hands