Hey guys, I've been visiting this site for awhile and have started planning my own CNC. First off thanks to everyone who comments and shares their wisdom/knowledge with all of us just beginning this obsession. The wealth of knowledge is a little overwhelming but very appreciated.
Ok now down to business. I'm planning on constructing the bed with a usable area of about 24" x 36". I've been saving some 30mm linear bearings (open style) for the y-axis and a few 16mm bushings/bearings for the z. I wanted to use supported rail but don't want to spend $$$ for the manufacturers rails. I was thinking about some drill rod, or stainless steel shaft. It needs to be tight tolerances...any ideas/suggestions? Know any good websites to order from?
Also should i think about using thick wall tubing instead and make some supported rails myself, i don't have a milling machine or anything, I'm a furniture maker so it needs to be fairly painless for me.
Thanks for any comments, I'm excited to finally start seriously planning.