Question about machines

Let me preface this by saying that I have absolutely no intent on tattooing anybody until I go through an apprenticeship. Basically I would like to know if anybody could recommend any decent equip for someone who wants to familiarize himself a tattoo machine a little before going through an apprenticeship as not to go in completely cold. I also plan taking some OSHA training courses. I am well aware that most sites will only sell to professionals. I looked at some of the "kits" on the Unimax site and they run anywhere between 200-500 dollars. They also sell Swashdrive kits and while I am tempted to spend the extra money I also wouldn't want to bust up some expensive equipment due to my lack of knowledge. Again I would only be practicing on pigskin etc. Basically I just wanted to know if any of the kits on this site would be a step up from those shady ones I see on ebay since Unimax is a reputable distributor (I think?). Some of the brands in their apprentice kits are "Jaws" and "Strongman". If anyone could shed any light whatsoever I would much appreciate it!!!

Most people will tell you to wait until you have your apprenticeship and have your mentor give you suggestions which I feel is very good advice...however I completely understand your desire to learn and want to purchase a machine, so here goes. Choosing a machine is very personal (at least that is what I found, others may feel different) and I can honestly tell you going cheap gets you NO WHERE fast. Spending anywhere from 200 to 300 for just the machine is not unreasonable-and it should really feel good in your hands, that is why I really recommend going to a place where you can actually hold the machine ( I have been to Unimax in NYC and have to tell you they have some nice things there BUT also some very high priced "Ebay" machines...so buyer beware) I personally have around 6 machines- all ranging from cheap to really expensive and have to tell you that the cheap ones make great paper weights and my favs which take a huge beating and keep on running like champs are my expensive ones. Another thing you may want to look into in is going to one of the conventions listed here on the site-some fantastic artists are there and you can also really see some excellent machines there as well. Good luck!

Get ahold of me by email, and I will send you our catalog. We have hi dollar machines and economy machines for the beginner. We can beat any ones prices as we buy direct from the manufacture [email removed]

Thank you very much for the input!