Starter offset press

Hi all,

I have always wanted to get a simple (and smaller) 1 color offset press to tinker with and learn from. All my limited experience has been with laser and inkjet but I’ve always wanted to get an offset press. Not for profit but purely my own curiosity.

The issue is I don’t know where to start. What kind of press would you recommend to start with? My only preference would be the smaller the better. I’ve seen a few offset “duplicators” online such as the Ab Dick 320 but I have yet to find anything like it for sale.

what would you guys recommend? I’m located in Florida if that also helps.

Looking forward to what everyone has to say.

 

Smaller ABDick or Ryobi are good, I would recommend that you'd get one with Kompac Dampening system and think ahead how are you going to make plates.

 

Does anybody know where one could find an Ab Dick 320, 324 or 326?

 

My recomendation would be for a press with a proper side guide. Not sure about modern AB Dicks but as I remember them they were not equipped with a side guide. Something with a side guide and at least 3 form rollers will allow you to dive s bit deeper into the process.

 

Do you have any specific models you’d recommend with a side guide?

 

An older Miehle Favorite would give you a side guide, 4 form rollers, and would be a proper printing press, as opposed to many of the smaller duplicator style presses like AB Dicks, Chiefs, and baby Ryobis. Also from the same era you can check out the older Harris 25" sheetfed. Both of these are older presses, but were built like tanks. They lack a lot of the technology of the newer Japanese imports, but make up for it in durability if properly maintained throughout their lifetime. They are also of a larger format and will allow 4 up 8.5x11, or 2 up 11x17. And the best thing is that they could probably be had for very short $$$

 

You'd likely love an old Multigraph 1250 chute or chain, or an ABDick 360, Chute or Chain, (Chain is best, but larger of course)

 

You'll easy find a single colour gto. That is proper machine which will give you very good start in litho printing.

 

Hi sir
Starting with a smaller offset press is a great idea for learning and tinkering. The AB Dick 320 is indeed a popular choice for beginners due to its simplicity and compact size. You can explore similar models like the Ryobi 3302 or the Heidelberg QM 46. Keep an eye on online marketplaces, local printing equipment auctions, or specialized used printing equipment dealers. Networking with printing enthusiasts or professionals in your area may also lead to finding available presses. Make sure to thoroughly research and inspect any used press before making a purchase, and consider factors like availability of spare parts and local support. Good luck with your offset printing adventures!