Hey guys!
I'm finally on the hunt for my first real pinball machine! I've had a zizzle POTC in the past and was never really in love with it. We finally got an arcade/brewery here in town which is AMAZING and has rekindled my desire to own one. Anyway, the market for pins in Montana is nonexistent to say the least!
I'm open to suggestions and don't have a particular one in mind. I find myself drawn to newer machines and in particular 90's machines but not set on anything. I'm not afraid of a project but would prefer one that may have a beat up cabinet, etc but plays 100%...functional but cosmetically loved .
My budget ideally would be $1000-1500 plus shipping but may be willing to up that for the right machine.
Let me know if you have something you'd be willing to part with to start my collection. Thanks for letting me lurk and learn as I get started
Thanks,
Dax

Thanks Wickerman2 I've been through that list more times than I'd like to admit lol. Anyway, I've been keeping an eye on the classified listings (here and elsewhere) but a lot of them aren't willing to ship, etc. Just was tossing this out there to see if anyone had anything they were looking to get rid of. Sorry if this isn't the right place to post...

Thanks guys, those are some great recommendations! I know enough to be dangerous on the electrical side of things which should help. Do you think it would be better to wait or pull the trigger now on the best deal I can find? The fact that I'm in Montana limits things tremendously and will be expensive to ship. There is ONE machine in Montana currently for sale and it's 1968 Domino...it's fine, but I just know I would find myself wanting to upgrade almost immediately! It's kinda blowing my mind how expensive these things are!

Thanks! How accurate is the value ranges on here as a basis for what I should spend on a particular machine? The lost world you sent seems to be in range but this one is way off...
https://pinside.com/pinball/market/classifieds/ad/79272

Haha not sure if the wife would sign on for 2-3k lol. The idea of using shipping costs into the budget is intriguing. However buying on here seems much safer than craigslist. Man, the idea of waiting seems so unfulfilling lol!

Good point about being able to test drive and fully test out in person. Funny, a Firepower II just hit my radar on here, but I think it just went sale pending...sigh.

Thanks guys! Super helpful stuff!!! I messaged on that Simpson’s machine but no response, also got a private message about a Vector which seems really intriguing!

One of you mentioned getting one before the snow flies...is this a concern other than transport? Obviously would take precautions for weather but does the hot to cold hurt the Playfield, etc?

I have to say I’m truly humbled by how many people have opened up to help! Sharing your wisdom and experiences helps more than you’ll ever know...THANK YOU!