Good pressure canner source?

[Catalpa]

I am determined to get a pressure canner for next season, at least if I can find one that I can afford.

But I don't want to go cheap, and have one that's not safe or won't last. I've been doing some research and reading, and it sounds like the All American is a good brand; I like the idea of not having a gasket.

What is your experience with different brands? And do you know a good source that isn't terribly expensive?

I'm watching this one on eBay http://cgi.ebay.com/25-QT-ALL-AMERICAN-PRESSURE-CANNER-PRESSURE-COOKER-NEW_W0QQitemZ150327657141QQcmdZViewItemQQptZSmall_ Kitchen_Appliances_US?hash=item150327657141.

I'd really appreciate some opinions.
Thanks,
Cat

[Anon001]

I have an All American with no gasket. I've had it for about 6 or 7 years. I really like it. I know of a couple others on here that also have them and like them.

[CanNerd]

Unless you live at a high altitude, I would suggest getting one without a "dial gauge", i.e., uses a rocker weight. Life will be much simpler.

[OzarkMtnDaredevil]

I have to echo Paul on the All American brand. They LAST. You can also easily get parts from the website. Parts that are obsolete actually have replacements that are upgrades, too.

[stilltryinat50]

Catalpa,

I have a 33 yr old All American and have loved it from day 1. There has been a lot of food processed in it, and I plan to get many more years' use from it.

Matter of fact, I am currently looking for the larger size canner. Mine is a 7 quart and I want a 14 quart to use also.

Good luck to you in your search.

Deb

p.s. ebay seems to have the best price so far. The best price I am seeing so far is $265.

[pcrowder]

I have Presto and Mirro canners of all sizes, and I just bought the 41qt All American last year. (took me 3 years to save up for it, but it is worth it!)
I agree - the All American will last, and it's nice NOT to have to buy gaskets all the time. I live very rural in a very dry climate, and the gaskets just do not last as long here as they do in more humid areas. I've been forced to order my gaskets on line because the local stores only carry 1 or 2 sizes, and of course, they do NOT fit mine! The All American take some getting used to if you've used other kinds with the gasket, but I do love mine! I've bought a couple of Mirro and Presto canners on EBay and have gotten great deals. But, I think those good deals are now a thing of the past because it seems like everyone is now learning to can again.
Best of luck in your choice, and if you have any questions, feel free to either pm or email me!

[Vinland]

Check craigslist.com I found one I'm thinking of buying that is stated as brand new 25 Qt #925 all american cooker. $145.

[anna]

I purchased my canners at household auctions. I gave $5 for one and $10 for the other. Both will do 7 quarts. One will do 9 pints and the other 18 pints. Both were virtually brand new. Both are Presto brand which seems to be very common and parts are easy to find both locally and on the Internet. I've wanted an American for awhile but unless I find a bargain at an auction or thrift store I'll keep using what I have.

[Catalpa]

Thanks for the input, guys. I don't have the money to make the purchase right now, but it's great to know what to look for - then when I spot a bargain, I'll know it!

Sounds like the American is a good product.

[Anon001]

If you buy a pressure canner that uses no gasket, make absolutely certain that around the "lip" or where it seals, that there's no chips, dings, or corrosion. If so, it will not properly seal.

[davis]

Red hill general store has the best price+shipping on All-American and I've search all over the net,even ebay. I bought the 921