[Firing cone 6 in Paragon SNF24 kiln??]

19 hours ago, neilestrick said:

Kilns rated to 2300F are cone 8 kilns. It'll get you to cone 6, but your element life will not be as good as a cone 10 kiln. You'll likely get 70-80 firings from a set of elements instead of 130-150. The elements just can't wear as much before they're too worn to do the job. If you're only doing a bisque and glaze once a month that's probably not a big deal. If you're firing weekly, the added cost of elements will add up quickly. Also, look up what new elements for the kiln will cost. The price can vary greatly among Paragon kilns.

Thank you so much!! 

[Firing cone 6 in Paragon SNF24 kiln??]

Hello everyone. I am an intermediate potter and I usually fire my things at the studio. The kiln at the studio fires up to cone 10 , but I usually stick to cone  6. 
 

I am in the process of searching for my own kiln and I came across a paragon SNF24 for 700 bucks. It seems like a really good deal but it looks like the max temperature is  2300 F. I know that cone 6 usually reaches 2232 so I’m wondering if this would be a good investment for me or should I just stick to finding a kiln that reaches cone 10? 

I read online that if you want to fire mid range, you should get a kiln that can reach cone 10 even if you don’t plan on using it to that temperature because the elements can wear out faster. but I feel like I’m seeing mixed responses so I just wanted any kind of insight or opinions on whether or not I should get this kiln if I fire to cone 6. Thanks! 

[Local Kiln for Sale. Is this a good price?]

@neilestrick here are some images of the kiln

[Local Kiln for Sale. Is this a good price?]

@neilestrick thank you so much! What is too old? Something that's been used 5 years? 10? 

[Local Kiln for Sale. Is this a good price?]

I need help determining if these used kilns are worth the price!

The first one is a Skutt LT-3K - model 1027. It comes with one shelf and a couple of bricks. This one is going for $1,200. Looks to be in good condition, told it fires perfect. 

 

The second one is $1,500 and is a Skutt Ceramic Kiln KS-818WR, Cone 10. This one comes with bricks, peep holes, and  cones. Looks to be in great condition, fires perfectly.

 

My question is, which is a better deal? I want to say the $1500 because it comes with some many things, but it looks like it's on the smaller end. I usually fire about 10 mugs, 5 bowls, and a couple of vases. All under about 5-6 inches. I am scared it may be too small. But, the 1027 is what I am used to firing at the studio. 

 

Another question, it looks like they both have manual kiln sitters. Is it possible to change it to the digital display? Like this here -- https://www.theceramicshop.com/product/18270/km-1027-kiln-240v-1p/ 

 

I only fire at a studio and every kiln has a little display pad where you can change the cone, temp, speed etc so I've never really worked with a manual one before. 

 

Thoughts and advice needed!!

 

Thanks, 

2 yr potter.