This post was last updated on: September 1, 2023
Finding the best 60 gallon air compressor for your needs can feel a bit like having to choose between a Steak with 23 fries or a Steak with 24 fries. Seen from a distance, both look the same. But when you take a closer look, the best 60 gallon air compressor units reveal that every model is ideally suited to a specific set of needs.
My aim is to set you up with your perfect match and recommend the best air compressor for your needs. There are many beauties out there that might mislead you with their good looks and colorful curves. These 60 gallon air compressor reviews intend to reveal all, so you don’t make an impulsive choice that you will regret later.
Table of Contents
The Best 60 Gallon Unit for Expanding Your Workshop
If you are serious about leveling up or replacing your current 60 gallon air compressor, this article is written to help you find your perfect match. The best 60 gallon air compressor reviews tend to overlap quite a bit in their choice of air compressor, but I will try to speak directly to you; the end-user. Focusing on the best air compressor for your specific needs.
You will notice that all the units are stationary, floor mounted air compressors. As such, they need to be bolted to the concrete floor on which they stand. I will offer one piece of advice up front. Make sure you have those holes marked perfectly before you start drilling. I speak from solid experience when I say this, and will tell you the tail of multiple wrong holes at the end of this article.
But before I reveal how my nickname became “Holy Man”, let’s first take a look at the best 60 gallon air compressor units available.
Product Quick Comparison
| Image | BRAND & MODEL NUMBER | MAX PSI | CFM | HP | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 PSI Air Pressure |
12.6 CFM air at 40 PSI and 11.3 CFM at 90 PSI |
3 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump |
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| 175 PSI Air Pressure | 14.3 CFM 175 PSI |
5 HP, Capacitor Start, Electrical Motor w/ Oil Lubricated Cast Iron Pump |
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| 155 PSI Air Pressure |
13.4 CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute) Air at 40 PSI and 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI |
3.7 HP Oil Lubricated Pump |
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| 175 PSI Operating Pressure | 15.2 CFM air flow @ 175 PSI |
5 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump |
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| 175 PSI | 7.6 SCFM air flow @ 90PSI |
3.7 HP Oil Lubricated Pump |
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| 175 PSI Air Pressure | 13.5 CFM air flow @ 175 PSI |
5 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump |
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| 175 PSI Air Pressure | 39 CFM air flow @ 100 PSI | 18 HP, Oil Lubricated Running Pump |
Product Reviews
KEY BENEFITS
- Highly Trusted and Popular Model
- Readily Available Parts
- Solid Performance
- Affordable Professional Quality
The Puma Industries PK-6060V is a legend in the 60 gallon air compressor segment. And for good reasons. Have you ever taken your car for tires, a lube job, bodywork or to have it resprayed? Chances are that there was a 60 gallon air compressor in the backroom supplying the air for the job. Also, the chances that it was a Puma Industries PK-6060V, are really good. So why is this model so popular?
The first reason I will give you is that thousands of people trust the quality and build of the Puma. It has proven itself over and over as one of the most reliable and hardworking air compressors ever built.
The second reason I would sum up as “Peace Of Mind”. The Puma runs forever. If they do have any problems, they are easy to fix, their parts are readily available and you will most certainly find someone in every town who can do the job.
Thirdly, and you can try to prove me wrong, but I doubt very much if you can point to one person who regretted purchasing a Puma Industries PK-6060V.
With its cast iron air pump, running at a low 980 RPM, the Puma Industries PK-6060V still manages a highly respected 12.6 CFM at 40 PSI. And with a duty cycle of 100%, it’s easy to understand why this 60 Gallon Air Compressor is a favorite for sandblasting applications.
The Puma draws a low 15 Amps of current, which means you can run it all day long while keeping your electrical bill low.
The designers clearly intended to build a workhorse. Parts are readily available, and the Puma Industries PK-6060V model is easy to work on and repair. The vertical tank comes equipped with a 1/2” inch outlet. A ball valve is supplied to ensure you get maximum throughput for your air tool applications
The heavy duty, cast iron construction of this air compressor radiates quality. I would however not recommend it for large commercial workshops with multiple workstations, or applications requiring high pressure.
As a very competitively priced air compressor, this unit is the best 60 gallon air compressor for those who want the maximum long term CFM output per dollar.
Perfect Match: The Puma is the most trusted 60 gallon are compressor available. This is the best unit for sandblasting and medium size air tool users. Take a good look at this unit for your garage shop or high air flow applications. It’s a heavy duty machine that comes at a price most DIY enthusiasts can also afford.
| Puma Industries PK-6060V Specifications |
|---|
| Maximum PSI: 135 PSI Air Pressure. (4 Star) |
| CFM: 12.6 CFM air at 40 PSI and 11.3 CFM at 90 PSI (3.5 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 240 Volts supply drawing 15 Amps of Current. Electric Air Compressor. (4.5 Star) |
| Noise Level: Medium High. (4 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 3 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump. (3.5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor |
| Weight & Dimensions: 305 Pounds; 66 x 29 x 21 inches |
| Warranty: 1 year (3 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven, 60 Gallon Single Stage Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor. |
| Duty Cycle: 100% (5 Star) |
Pros
Extremely Well Built
Quit and Quick to Fill
Continuous Duty Cycle
Economical 3 HP Heavy Duty Induction Motor
Built In Thermal Overload Protection
Cons
Cramped Electrical Junction Box
KEY BENEFITS
- Cast Iron Construction for Extended Pump Life up to 15 000 Hours
- Two Stage Pump with High CFM
- Uninterrupted High Volume Output
The Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V is a highly attractive, heavy duty, 60 gallon air compressor. Ingersoll Rand is a highly trusted manufacturer, and this is one of their top 60 Gallon Air Compressors.
The cast iron, extended duty pump is designed to ensure over 15 000 hours of trouble free use, while individually cast cylinders and an overhung crankshaft case with one piece connecting rod greatly simplifies service and maintenance.
The Ingersoll Rand 2340l5-V air compressor has a 100% duty cycle to ensure that your projects never stand still. The 5HP heavy duty induction motor delivers an impressive 14.3 CFM at 175 PSI. That is some serious high pressure air flow.
Ingersoll Rand also sells an additional start up package that includes their “All Season Select” synthetic lubricant. This package includes all your start up parts, extends service intervals, and adds a 3 year warranty on the pump.
Perfect Match: This model is the best for small industrial workshops or automotive workshops, and also for individuals who are high end automotive DIY enthusiasts.
| Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V Specifications |
|---|
| Max PSI: 175 PSI Air Pressure. (5 Star) |
| CFM: 14.3 CFM 175 PSI. (5 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 240 Volts Power Source. (4.0 Star) |
| Noise Level: Medium High. (4 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 5 HP, Capacitor Start, Electrical Motor with an Oil Lubricated Cast Iron Pump. (4.5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor. |
| Weight & Dimensions: 400 Pounds; 32 x 21 x 69 inches. |
| Warranty: 1 Year Standard Warranty with a 2 Year Extended Warranty Available. (4 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven Two Stage Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Floor Mounted Stationary Air Compressor. |
| Duty Cycle: 100% (5 Star) |
Pros
Cast Iron Construction for Extended Pump Life up to 15 000 Hours
Overhung Crankcase for Easy Servicin
Manual Thermal Overload Protection
Oil Sight Glass
Cons
230 V with 10% Voltage Tolerance
Sold Without Regulator Setup
KEY BENEFITS
- One Piece Cast Iron Crankcase
- Splash Type Lubrication and Oil Sight Glass
- Continuous Airflow
The Industrial Air ILA3606056 features professional grade quality at a highly affordable price point. Its compact size further ensures that it can fit into even the smallest garage.
The Industrial Air has a cast iron twin cylinder pump and crankcase that delivers 11.4 CFM at 90 PSI. This is more than enough air to run multiple pneumatic tools in most mechanic shops, while still delivering a highly respectable 155 Max PSI. Their dependability is demonstrated by the large number of Industrial Air 60 gallon air compressors in service across the country.
The heavy duty durable cast iron pump features an aluminum head and valve plate, automotive style bearings, stainless steel valves, and a cast iron flywheel. Industrial Air is clearly serious about providing a long lasting 60 gallon air compressor at a highly competitive price.
Perfect Match: The best compressor for automotive enthusiasts, mechanic shops, and anybody that needs a little extra 60 gallon air compressor muscle in their garages, without breaking the bank. Industrial Air is known for its top quality 60 gallon air compressors.
| Industrial Air ILA3606056 Specifications |
|---|
| Max PSI: 155 PSI Air Pressure (4 Star) |
| CFM: 13.4 CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute) Air at 40 PSI and 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI. (3.5 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 240 Volts supply drawing 15 Amps of Current; Electric Air Compressor (4.5 Star) |
| Noise Level: High (3 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 3.7 HP Oil Lubricated Pump (3.5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor |
| Weight & Dimensions: 228 Pounds; 31 x 27 x 68 inches |
| Warranty: 2 Year Limited (3.5 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Hi-Flo Belt Driven 60 Gallon Single Stage Air Compressor |
| Portability: Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor |
Pros
Spread Voltage Rating from 208V to 240V
Shipped with Synthetic Oil
Ideal Unit for Air Tools
Reliable Induction Motor
Cons
Complicated Electrical Installation
KEY BENEFITS
- Lifetime compressor
- Commercial use
- Automotive industry
There was a time when you used to buy tools for life. Quincy brings that approach to 60 gallon air compressors. The Quincy QT-54 is framed as the last 60 gallon air compressor you will ever buy because it’s that good.
I have to agree. The company has really taken a good look at the features that make an air compressor reliable and incorporated the best version of those features into their 60 gallon air compressors. In fact, all Quincy air compressors are built to last a lifetime.
If you want additional peace of mind, you can also purchase the extended warranty kit. The extended warranty provides a three year warranty on the air compressor pump and a two your warranty on the rest of the air compressor.
The Quincy QT-54 is also designed to be maximally efficient and will supply 15.2 CFM at 175 Max PSI while drawing a subdued 24 Amps of current. That is a lot of air flow at relatively high pressure and will power even the most “thirsty” air tools while the 1/2″ inch outlet air supply will ensure high throughput.
Quincy Air Compressor Units are 100% American made.
Perfect Match: Are you the kind of guy who likes authenticity and owning items that tell a story?
If you want to stand in your shop one day and reminisce with your grandchildren about the 60 Gallon Air Compressor you used to frame the first house you and their grandmother lived in while saying “Listen how smooth she still runs” when you click her into life. Then, my dear Sir, this is the best machine for you!
Key Features:
- 30 000 hour pump life
- Highly Efficient
- Extended Onsite Repair Warranty Available
| Quincy QT-54 Specifications |
|---|
| Max PSI: 175 PSI Operating Pressure. (5 Star) |
| CFM: 15.2 CFM air flow @ 175 PSI. (5 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 230 Volts supply drawing 24 Amps of Current; Electric Air Compressor. (3.5 Star) |
| Noise Level: High. (3 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 5 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump. (4.5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor |
| Weight & Dimensions: 475 Pounds; 29 x 21 x 764 inches |
| Warranty: Purchase Extended Warranty – 2 Year All Parts with a 3 Year Pump Warranty. |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven, Two Stage Cast Iron Twin Cylinder Pump, Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor. |
| Duty Cycle: 100% (5 Star) |
Pros
Splash Lubricated
Low 1310 RPM
Less than 5ppm Oil Carry Over
Built-In Thermal Overload
Cons
Supplied Without Regulator
KEY BENEFITS
- Heavy Duty Induction Motor
- Ideal for Garage Workshop Applications
- Space Saving Footprint
The Campbell Hausfeld is the other 60 gallon air compressor in this review that has the distinction of being 100% American Made. The vertical tank design and small footprint make’s it ideal for commercial workshops where space comes at a premium
The Campbell Hausfeld is a two stage compressor that delivers 175 max PSI pressure and a relatively low 5.1 CFM at 175 PSI. The 3.7 HP motor draws an energy saving 16.2 Amps. The compressor is suited to drive a small number of air tools.
Perfect Match: If you own a tire dealership or you are looking for a heavy duty air compressor for small die grinding jobs, or to inflate truck or tractor tires, then this is the best 60 gallon air compressor for you.
| Campbell Hausfeld XC602100 Specifications: |
|---|
| Maximum PSI: 175 PSI (5 Star) |
| CFM: 7.6 SCFM air flow @ 90PSI (3 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 240 Volts supply drawing 16.2 Amps of Current. Electric Air Compressor. (4 Star) |
| Noise Level: Reduced Noise (4.5 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 3.7 HP Oil Lubricated Pump (3.5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor |
| Weight & Dimensions: 336 Pounds; 29x 33 x 74 inches |
| Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty (4.5 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven, Cast Iron Twin Cylinder, Two Stage Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor. |
Pros
Low Power Consumption
Reduced Noise Pump
Cast Iron Heavy Duty Motor
Cons
Sold Without Regulator Setup
KEY BENEFITS
- Low RPM for longer pump life
- Patented Pump Design for Improved Cooling
- Tie Down Holes for Safe Transporting
Dewalt certainly manufactures some of the best 60 gallon air compressor units available. In fact, their entire range is synonymous with good value and quality. The Dewalt DXCMV5076055 is no exception and is a heavy duty air compressor suited to a great variety of needs.
The 5.0 HP, capacitor start motor, is supplied with thermal overload protection that will guard the cast iron motor against voltage fluctuations. This 60 gallon air compressor also features Dewalt’s patented pump and piston design, which ensures cooler running while maintaining compression efficiency. As such, the Dewalt 60 gallon air compressors are deservedly popular.
The Dewalt DXCMV5076055 is a two stage air compressor that can handle large volume projects that require running multiple air tools. At 175 max PSI pressure, you will get 13.5 CFM air flow, drawing an efficient 22 Amps of electric current. Considering the air flow volume, this model air is highly efficient.
Perfect Match: This is the best 60 Gallon Air compressor for Serious Tradesmen and Industrial Users who are running high output projects with large teams.
| Dewalt DXCMV5076055 SpecificationsHausfeld XC602100 Specifications: |
|---|
| Maximum PSI: 175 PSI Air Pressure (5 Star) |
| CFM: 13.5 CFM air flow @ 175 PSI (4.5 Star) |
| Power Requirements: 230 Volts supply drawing 22 Amps of Current. Electric Air Compressor. (4.0 Star) |
| Noise Level: Medium High. (4 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 5 HP, Oil Lubricated Pump. (4 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Capacity: 60 Gallon, Vertical Air Compressor. |
| Weight & Dimensions: 400 Pounds; 40 x 31 x 80 inches. |
| Warranty: 2 Year Pump, 1 Year all other Parts (3.5 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven, Two Stage Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor. |
Pros
Wire Form Belt Guard for Improved Cooling
Shipped with Fully Synthetic Oil
Thermal Overload Protection
Cons
Sold Without Regulator Setup
KEY BENEFITS
- 18 HP Gas Powered Honda Engine with Electric Start
- Low RPM for Extended Life Up to 50 000 Hours
- Suitable for Truck Mounting
It’s sad to say, but few of us will ever really need a truck mounted 60 gallon air compressor. But I do feel you need to know this beast exists. So if you ever need a truck mounted air compressor to fire your nail gun at Zombies, you will know exactly what to get! Additionally, Emax air compressors are fitted with some of the best technological innovations in the world of air compressors.
All jokes aside, the Emax EGES1860ST is all business. It is supplied with an 18 Horsepower, gas powered, Honda motor. You will need a 12V battery and suitable cables to activate the Honda’s electric starter.
Like Emax’s other models, this 60 gallon air compressor’s air pump is lubricated by a pressurized oil delivery system that will ensure optimal lubrication of all moving parts. This unique low RPM system ensures that your pump is lubricated even when running at 100 RPM. A cast iron, balanced flywheel, ensures ultra smooth operation.
This 60 gallon air compressor’s cast iron pump has a life expectancy of over 70 000 hours. The Emax EGES1860ST is also surprisingly quiet, considering what a powerhouse it is, and that it’s gas driven.
As for CFM, this unit delivers a whopping 39 CFM at 100 PSI, with large air intake filter units to ensure clean air throughput. This is a truck mounted, gas driven unit. Emax does have electrical models as well, but this model is obviously more fun to write about.
Perfect Match: If a house is burning down, and you are the kind of guy who goes crashing through the front door while everyone else is fumbling for their cellphones, then this compressor is for you. This is the best 60 gallon beast for the “Man of Action”. Almost make’s me wish I had a remote site to develop where electricity has not yet been connected.
| Emax 18 HP EGES1860ST Specifications |
|---|
| Maximum PSI: 175 PSI Air Pressure. (5 Star) |
| CFM: 39 CFM air flow @ 100 PSI. (5 Star) |
| Powered by: Gas Powered; Honda GX 630 Electric Start Motor. (5 Star) |
| Noise Level: Medium High. (3 Star) |
| Power Level and Lubrication: 18 HP, Oil Lubricated Running Pump. (5 Star) |
| Tank Style and Tank Size: 60 Gallon, Horizontal Air Compressor. |
| Weight & Dimensions: 540 Pounds; 56 x 23 x 53 inches |
| Warranty: 5 year (5 Star) |
| Drive System and Number of Stages: Belt Driven, Two Stage Air Compressor. |
| Portability: Truck Mounted, or Floor Mounted, Stationary Air Compressor |
Pros
Gate Valve Oil Drain
5 Year Warranty
Cool Tek Technology Reduces Temperature and Increases Pump Life
Cast Iron Cylinders
One Piece Cast Iron Crankcase
Cast Iron Balanced Flywheel
Cons
Needs a 12V Battery and Battery Cables
Check Price on AmazonBuyers Guide
What is the Best 60 Gallon Air Compressor?
This section is intended as a buyers guide, to inform you of some of the more important points you need to consider when buying a compressor for your shop.
There comes a time in the evolution of every Workshop or DIY enthusiast, when you realize that you have reached the limits of your equipment. Anyone looking to buy a 60 Gallon compressor for the first time, has reached that point. You are either going to level up and take on larger projects. Or you are going to downscale your projects to fit within the capabilities of your equipment.
60 Gallon Air Compressors are the entry level units into the world of “Big Air” workshop air compressors. And when choosing an air compressor, you need to make sure you select the right one according to your needs.
The first step is to define exactly what kind of jobs you intend to do. The second step is to be clear on your budget. It would be fun to live in a world where price point made no difference. But the reality is that for most of us, a 60 gallon compressor represents quite an investment.
When it comes to tools, I have a hard and fast rule that goes something like this: Buy the best you can afford. But I should work the word “Suitable” in there as well. Make sure you meet all your requirements. Actually, it’s best to make sure you exceed your requirements, as a little bit of extra capacity always comes in handy.
Most 60 gallon air compressors reviews would have included the following two units:
- Ingersoll Rand ss3l3
- Maxair c5160v1.
I have opted to leave them out, but feel they do deserve an honorable mention. If you don’t find what you need on this page, have a look at any of those two.
What is the Quietest 60 Gallon Air Compressor?
The California Air Tool 33 Air Compressor is widely viewed as the quietest 60 gallon compressor. This is an oil free compressor and I have not mentioned any oil free compressors. Typically, oil free compressors run the loudest. But in this instance, quite ironically, the California Air Tool 33 is the quietest.
In my opinion, oil lubricated pumps are more durable and suited to industrial use than their oilless counterparts. This may change in the future, so check back for updates.
CFM – Air Volume Usage
Make a list of the pneumatic tools you intend to use and look at the highest CFM required, then add 30% and compare that to the specs of the compressors under consideration. If you intend to run multiple air tools simultaneously, you need to add the CFM of all those tools, then add 30% and once again compare that to the air compressor’s specs.
Maximum Pressure PSI versus Maximum Airflow CFM
Another important distinction is between PSI and CFM.
PSI = Pound per Square Inch, and is the upper limit of pressure that compressors air tanks can safely withstand. The value basically tells you how hard the air inside the tank is pressing against the wall.
CFM = Cubic Feet per Minute, and is how much air flow the compressor can generate to drive your air tools. So before buying, you need to decide if you need high PSI or high CFM, or both?
Single Stage versus Two Stage 60 Gallon Air Compressor
Lastly, you will see mention of Two Stage Air Compressors or Single Stage Air Compressors.
Two stage compressors are associated with higher MAX PSI, while single stage compressors are associated with high CFM. Many two stage compressors can also produce high CFM, but single stage air compressors never achieve the same max PSI as two stage compressors.
Single stage compressors are cheaper to buy and to run. So if your need extends mainly to air tools, a 60 gallon, single stage air compressor will be all you need.
Finally, these are all stationary units. Meaning, it’s best to bolt them to the floor. And that brings me to how I got my nickname. (Hopefully the editor doesn’t delete this section!)
60 Gallon Air Compressor “Holy Man”
The first 60 gallon air compressor that I installed, had to go in a small backroom in a client’s workshop. The room was clean but packed to capacity with boxes and tools of all shapes and sizes. Additionally, it was a really hot and humid day and the room felt like a sauna.
The prospect of moving the compressor in and out of the room was highly unappealing, so I decided to place a cardboard box under the feet of the air compressor, mark the holes on the box, and then transfer the marks to where I was supposed to drill. This made sense because 60 gallon air compressors weigh more than 300 pounds.
The box had some lines printed on it, which I decided I would use as a guide to orientate the box once inside.
So I marked the holes, drilled them, and moved the compressor into position. Only to find, it was not lining up. AT ALL! I was dumbfounded. It made no sense. The holes are supposed to be in a perfect square. I inspected the box and then to my amazement, realized it was printed similarly on both sides. I had flipped it over without realizing, and this was that “one in a thousand air compressors” that had one slightly off center hole in one cast iron foot.
I then decided I wasn’t going to make a fool of myself any further, and that it was the best option to move the air compressor into its final position and mark directly on the floor. I drilled “New” holes and bolted the 60 gallon air compressor down.
Full Metal Wire Belt Guard
All that remained was to connect the electricity and to fit the 60’s full metal belt guard. That bloody belt guard! Imagine my disbelief when I realized that I had positioned the air compressor to close to an electrical junction box. I would either have to A) move the junction box, or B) leave the belt guard off. OR…(C) move the compressor one more time!!!
All I could do was walk back to the truck, again. Fetch my power tools, again. Drill 4 holes, AGAIN! Twelve dusty holes in the back room that felt like a sauna, with an anxious client looking increasingly concerned. Thus I became known to my crew as the “Holy Man.” (It wore off eventually)
To all who read this, you best take heed! There are valuable lessons to be learned.