A rotary tattoo machine utilizes a spring-mass system to provide a dampening effect during operation. The rotary tattoo machine includes a tattoo machine housing, a reciprocating slider, and a dampening slider. A first channel traverses into the tattoo machine housing and receives the reciprocating slider. The reciprocating slider includes a first main body, a plurality of first bearings, a second channel, and a removable endcap. Each of the first bearings is rotatably connected along the first main body. Additionally, the first bearings are slidably engaged with the first channel. The second channel traverses into the first main body, parallel to the first channel. The dampening slider absorbs reactionary forces and includes a second main body, a plurality of second bearings, and a first spring. Each of the second bearings is rotatably connected along the second main body. Additionally, the second bearings are slidably engaged with the second channel.
