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Blind and Visually Impaired Community

Full History - 2021 - 10 - 30 - ID#qj4byu
14
Where to get used Perkins brailler? (self.Blind)
submitted by yoyo2718
As the title says. I’m learning Braille and I want one, but wow are they expensive! What’s the best place/website to get a used one that is actually functional? I’m in the US.
KillerLag 6 points 1y ago
You can check out eBay, but be aware that some people forget these kinds of device need maintenance to stay functional (and not many people can do that kind of maintenance anymore).

https://www.ebay.ca/itm/334185652907

For example, that one is just listed as "good used condition". No information about how old, when it was last maintained or repaired. It is possible the mechanisms are in good order, or they are verging on failure.

http://www.braillebookstore.com/Refurbished-Perkins-Brailler.1

They sell used ones, and their website states they "Cleaned, repaired, fine-tuned, oiled, and personally tested.
We offer a limited one-year warrantee".
yoyo2718 [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Thanks! Who services them if I need that?
KillerLag 2 points 1y ago
You will probably need to research for your local area. If not, you can contact Perkins but that could be costly.
Iamheno 3 points 1y ago
Looks like in your area, you might try Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, and see if they are selling any of theirs?
AutisticPearl 2 points 1y ago
I've asked the same question actually, you can try asking your local blind Services if they have any suggestions for you. At least that's what someone on here told me to do. I'm visually impaired and do not have access to a brailler because of the same reason you do I can see enough that I don't need one but I do eventually want to get one and actually own it because I don't want to borrow someone else's just for the safety aspect.
Rethunker 2 points 1y ago
Check blindbargains.com as well. Here’s a listing from earlier this year for a Brailler for $125.

https://www.blindbargains.com/classifieds.php?m=5326
purple_goat_8138 2 points 1y ago
People sell them on the blind ads mailing list often.
blindads+subscribe@groups.io
yoyo2718 [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Thanks!
ryan516 2 points 1y ago
Is there any reason in particular you’re looking for a perkins brailler? For the same amount as a refurbished perkins brailler that will last you, you could pick up a cheap braille display like the orbit 20, which will likely function for longer and better than a perkins brailler
yoyo2718 [OP] 1 points 1y ago
I’m not familiar with the orbit. I want to Braille game cards, shopping lists, fiction brainstorming stuff, etc . I know I could do a higher tech solution, but since I’m learning Braille it would be good practice for me to have the full page instead of just a line or two at a time. I guess I could use a slate and stylus or a sticker labeler for the games, but honestly given the number of games I own it’d be a colossal pain in the butt. But I’m open to other ideas. I’ll look up the orbit.
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