Shopsmith Forums

Hi, My name is Chris and I found this Shopsmith on Craigslist and was wondering about if it was #1 was what he said it was ( model 505, 2 yrs old ) and if its worth the $1400. Seems to be as it has the band saw attachment. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Chris

How about a link to the add.

Yes, post a link to the add and also include your location in your profile, as knowing the area where you live can help folks determine if regionally the price is reasonable. Based solely on your (brief) description, that sound pretty expensive to me for a 505 with a bandsaw, even assuming everything is in good condition. As for it being two years old, when did they last make 505 models? Seems like it was more than two years ago but I could be mistaken. More details and you'll get a more accurate response, but based on what we know so far, that sounds more like a $500-$700 setup to me if everything is in good working order.

If you know the serial number, this link will give you a real good idea of how old it is.

Sorry, thought I had put the link on my initial post. I live in Grants NM. The post is in Albuquerque NM about 75 miles east of me. Here's the link.
http://albuquerque.craigslist.org/tls/4216873554.html

It's always great to see someone buy and use another Shopsmith but, considering he will not dicker on the very high price, I'd pass on this one.

As stated too high an asking price. $700 to $800 would be a good deal for both sides. If he is stuck on his asking price keep looking another one / better deal will come along. If need be widen your looking area. Most of us have been known to make the drive for the right deal. You have come to the right place for advise and encouragement. Beware it is addicting !

Thanks, I agree. Just got off AZ. craigslist and plenty in the $500-$900 range.
I'm in no big hurry, may wait till Jan. or Feb. see if any good deals pop up.
Thanks

It appears to indeed be a 505. Since the speed dial has scroll saw labeling, it is fairly recently made. The sn(date) label should tell the tale.

Condition appears good.

Price is high.

Since this person has health and $$ problems and has expressed an unwillingness to haggle in price, I'd walk away from it. It's pretty common for folks to take a look at what the stuff costs new and be overly optomistic that they can get ~50% of that amount for a used unit in good shape, but alas the used market for Shopsmiths is definitely a buyers market and as noted, $500-$800 is more realistic for this setup.

So while you are keeping your eye out elsewhere for the right deal, do yourself a favor and read up on all the various models, accessories/attachments, etc and ask lots of questions here so you are sure to know what you what and what you are looking at when you go to check out machines in the future. I would definitely recommend trying to hold out for a model 510 or 520 if you plan to use the table saw much - the table upgrades on these models are substantial over the model 500 machines.