new to fusing and need advice on kiln

This is the main board for discussing general techniques, tools, and processes for fusing, slumping, and related kiln-forming activities.

Moderators: Brad Walker, Tony Smith

Post Reply
Jerry Eidens

new to fusing and need advice on kiln

Post by Jerry Eidens »

I've really appreciated all the great info you guys share on this board. I'm in the process of finishing my studio and am ready to purchase the kiln. I've narrowed the choice between the Skutt GM 1014 and the Paragon Fusion 10. From what I understand, they are both excellent kilns with a good track record. I guess my decision rests on the controller. What are your thoughts re: ease of use, program flexibility, reliability, etc between the two? Thanks!
Jim Wixon
Posts: 35
Joined: Sun Mar 09, 2003 3:50 pm
Location: Seal Beach

Post by Jim Wixon »

I use the Skutt 1014 and the small GF10 and and really the like the quality
and craftsmanship Skutt puts out. The controller is user friendly and reliable. I also use 2 older Paragons and they seem to last forever(with pins needing constant replacement) I prefer the Skutts. Check the Prices of both of the kilns you are considering at Bennett Pottery in florida...

http://bennettpottery.com/

good luck...jim
Jim Wixon
Posts: 35
Joined: Sun Mar 09, 2003 3:50 pm
Location: Seal Beach

Post by Jim Wixon »

I use the Skutt 1014 and the small GF10 and and really the like the quality
and craftsmanship Skutt puts out. The controller is user friendly and reliable. I also use 2 older Paragons and they seem to last forever(with pins needing constant replacement) I prefer the Skutts. Check the Prices of both of the kilns you are considering at Bennett Pottery in florida...

http://bennettpottery.com/

good luck...jim
Stuart Clayman
Posts: 224
Joined: Mon Mar 31, 2003 12:35 pm
Location: Virginia
Contact:

Post by Stuart Clayman »

Paragon has changed the way they make the tops for that kiln. The top has grooves in it for the top elements.. no more pins in the ceiling.
Make sure if you get it from a supplier that you get a new one, not one that they have had sitting around and has the pins in the top.

Stuart
Kiln Repair by a Clayman kilnrepair@yahoo.com
Glassworks by a Clayman
http://www.GlassArtists.org/GlassworksByAClayman
Jerry Eidens

Post by Jerry Eidens »

Thanks for your advice. I got quotes from Bennett Pottery and they seem very reasonable. $1,076 for the Fusion 10 with $147 shipping. How important is it to obtain the kiln from a local rep versus an out-of-state wholesaler or directly from the manufacturer? The only Skutt dealer in N. Carolina is ABC Stained Glass and they require a tax number, yellow pages ad, letterhead: none of which I have.

One other quick question, how important is a peep hole?
Post Reply