Need some advice on a meat slicer I found

ChillyWillis

i went on Craigslist today and found an antique Hobart model 411 meat slicer for $300. I know that Hobarts are generally very good slicers but I was looking for a little more info. Is this a good price for the unit? Will it serve me better than some of the home versions available? I've been getting much more into charcuterie lately so I will definitely be giving whatever slicer I end up getting quite the workout. 

It seems like a good price to me but I'm worried about spending $300 to get an old hunk of junk I spend more time fixing than slicing with. 

Darby_Crenshaw

How much fixing up does it require? Sounds like a good price, but we have nobidea what condition it is in

SGH

The 411's are pretty good slicers. A word of caution though, parts are scarce and expensive when you find them. Most of the parts on the 411 are NOT interchangeable with the 410 parts that are much less scarce. If the unit runs and is in good shape, I wouldn't be scared to buy it. However if it needs rebuilt, I would price out the parts before I bought it. Your 300.00 dollar investment could turn into three times that amount real quick depending on what all is wrong with it.  

ChillyWillis

That was what I'm worried about. The seller didn't put a photo up with it, but listed it in good condition. I think I'll go over and check it out, and if it's missing pieces or the motor sound off ill take a pass. 

Focker

ChillyWillis said:

That was what I'm worried about. The seller didn't put a photo up with it, but listed it in good condition. I think I'll go over and check it out, and if it's missing pieces or the motor sound off ill take a pass. 

Take something to slice, make sure it slices even, and thin.  Often times the slicer blades are toast from oversharpening operator error.  I bought a cheap chub of bolgna, gave it to the dogs when we were finished.  Taking some pharmacy grade mineral oil wouldn't hurt either for lubrication.  DO NOT USE PAM. 

Along with motor sound, make sure all parts are there, carriage assembly slides easily, indexing knob adjusts without difficulty, knife cover doesn't rub on knife, cord is intact, etc etc.  As mentioned, parts are expensive.  But if properly cared for and maintained, won't be an issue.  

Although a large footprint and heavy, I enjoy using my Hobart #512, was around $300, came with an extra knife..no sharpener.  Had my sharpening guy put a new edge on the knives for $20, some elbow grease cleaning, lubing with silicon spray, and food grade industrial silicon grease for the worm screw, and it works great.  Put it on a Craftsman engine cart for $90, and wheel it in and out when needed.  No lifting.  Tearing down and cleaning isn't bad at all.  Just have to be careful with the knife.  Have cut my hand with just a slight touch.