Anonymous Modernist 15454

Retort bags are used as an alternative to canning jars. You see them all over now in the grocery store. I picked up the 215 recently and went through your process. The 112 is a nice affordable model with pros and cons size-wize. It's lower, so it may fit under cabinets better, but it's a bigger footprint. I keep my 215 on a kitchen cart, and at 85# it stays there. To me, the biggest difference is the 215 has an oil pump. That should result in longer life and better performance over time, although the downside is some extra maintenance. My decisions was really just decide between the 112 or 215. To me $100 or whatever is worth the more industrial model once I decided to make that jump. The 112 also has a wider bag seal (12" vs 10") so that may be something else to consider if you intend to seal longer/wider items without portioning. Anyway, so far I'm very happy with the 215 and chamber sealers in general. I love packing up sauces and juicy stuff for freezing, and sous vide stuff with liquid. Plus the lower cost of bags and general improved seals. I use it almost daily.

I recently purchased the 215 and have been pleased with it. I think if you're OK with the oil maintenance part, it should prove to be worth the extra money.