I'll chime in again. Never owned one but...In my quest for my machine a few years back, I did an extensive amount of research on walking foot machines. I called the major MFG's including Consew, Salirite, Juki, Singer etc.. Spoke with the Sales Reps. got their material etc... All great machines and very pricey!!!!
I learned alot!!! I also learned that several Chinese and Taiwanese companies make these "Portable Clone" Walking foot machines with varying degrees of Quality Controls. The parts are almost identical and interchangeable. The REX clone isn't much different than the Reliant or the TacSew or any of the others. That's why they all look the same. Sailrite Bought the factory where theirs is made in order to ensure the QC of their machines and thus the reason for their higher costs. The old adage you get what you pay for applies. I've spent many hours ready hundreds of customer reviews on these "Clones". Some Good...Some Bad. I guess it's like everything else, if you happen to get one that came from the factory when the workers were alert and having a good day, then it will probably be a good machine. If not...then who knows??? As I stated before, I still think the best bet is to try and find a quality used machine. They really don't wear out and with patience can be found for reasonable costs. Even if you Pay $600 you can always sell it after you're done using it. and recoup some of your money or maybe even all of it. Might take some time but...I've paid for my machine many times over doing side jobs once I learned how to do some stitchin!!!
Heck I use an old 1947 Singer 15-91 a lot of the time and it does a great job for most of my upholstery needs. I only need the REX Walking foot on the Big Stuff like Boat Covers and Bimini Tops, and extra large cushions.
