I've got an opportunity to get a Batson power wrapper for a pretty good price. Under 200.00 bucks actually. It's slight used but in pretty good shape. I'm dragging my feet because I haven't tried out a power wrapper and I don't really know enough about them to ask the right questions. I'm getting to a point in my rod building side biz that it makes sense economically to move into this stage of development and was wondering what folks thoughts are on Batson PW'rs vs Pac Bay or some of the others on the market. What features does one have that the others don't etc. Or should I just build my own? I do know that I want a self centering chuck on the head.
Thanks.
BjR

It's my understanding that the 3 of them are basically the same wrapper and the parts are all interchangeable. I would recommend getting the chuck upgrade from Pac Bay though.

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

I have a Batson power wrapper and enjoy using it. I cannot compare it to any others since it is the only power wrapper I have ever used. It does just fine for me for turning grips and wrapping.

Brad,The Batson is the same unit as the Pac Bay and all parts interchange.The chuck upgrade is highly recomended(from Pac Bay).I have the Batson and like it a lot.Its not a Renzetti but for the hobbiest it does the job well.E-mail me if you need to know more.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

Fred,
Did I meet you at the Woodland, Washington rod building workshop last month?
BjR

No I`m from NJ.I was at the Charlotte show however.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

The Batson, Pac Bay, and I think American tackle are all alike. I bought a batson fairly cheap to do a project I have going. I have a OEM Flexcoat PW. I like the Batson really well but I had rather use my flexcoat, maybe because I am use to it. I did purchase the upgrade chuck head for the Batson. I wish the thread carriage was a little bigger on the Batson. I WISH I HAD A RENZETTI, but then i would have to borrow money from Mike and he charges a lot of interest........smile...........Your price is good and Karry Batson's company and products are great and more importantly great to work with and find out information from. Good luck. Have a good day. PS: I do find the Batson better to weave on than my Flexcoat.

Big John
Rio Hondo, Texas
Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting