That $85 press from Portland sounds like a steal honestly. @drew_patel57 is right that most shops charge way more for stuff like that. It's funny how we'll fight against spending money on the right tool but then blow like $40 on takeout without thinking twice, you know? I've noticed this pattern in my life too where I'll struggle with a janky setup for months before realizing the money saved isn't worth the headache. Like I used to cut all my book cloth with cheap scissors that gave me ragged edges until I spent $15 on a proper pair of shears. The upgrade changed everything, same as your press situation.