Walt Bulander
Senior Cook
After doing a bunch of research on vac sealers, I bought one from Impak a couple of years ago. They are a manufacturer of commercial vac sealers and of bags. Their internet division is SorbentSystems.com.
Their websitetestimonials were intriguing, and when I saw the cost of the bags, I was convinced.
The one I purchased (model VS-280) is comparable to the Tilia Foodsaver at just under $100, but differs in design in that it uses a snorkle type probe which allows the use of plain bags which are MUCH cheaper. Quart size bags are about 8 cents, and you can cut them in half to seal smaller items.
The maximum width of seal is just under 11 inches, so it will also do 10 x 15 bags which are about a gallon.
They make many other sizes and thicknesses and even make channel type bags that fit the Foodsaver style sealers (probably cheaper than stores, but I don't remember the prices - check them out)
bottom line:
Machine has worked without fail for over 2 years (and you can get parts, if needed)
You can pull higher vacuums, since the pump will run until you press the seal bar. (early disadvantage - if you leave the switch on and extend the snorkle, the pump turns on before you insert the bag and lock the cover. Took me about 4 sessions to remember this - I'm slow )
Low bag cost. With venison and all, I use a LOT of bags.
Lots of bag variety. From small to large, thin to thick, even Mylar.
I'm quite happy with it and it saves me lots of money.
Their websitetestimonials were intriguing, and when I saw the cost of the bags, I was convinced.
The one I purchased (model VS-280) is comparable to the Tilia Foodsaver at just under $100, but differs in design in that it uses a snorkle type probe which allows the use of plain bags which are MUCH cheaper. Quart size bags are about 8 cents, and you can cut them in half to seal smaller items.
The maximum width of seal is just under 11 inches, so it will also do 10 x 15 bags which are about a gallon.
They make many other sizes and thicknesses and even make channel type bags that fit the Foodsaver style sealers (probably cheaper than stores, but I don't remember the prices - check them out)
bottom line:
Machine has worked without fail for over 2 years (and you can get parts, if needed)
You can pull higher vacuums, since the pump will run until you press the seal bar. (early disadvantage - if you leave the switch on and extend the snorkle, the pump turns on before you insert the bag and lock the cover. Took me about 4 sessions to remember this - I'm slow )
Low bag cost. With venison and all, I use a LOT of bags.
Lots of bag variety. From small to large, thin to thick, even Mylar.
I'm quite happy with it and it saves me lots of money.