[mtechserv]

I recently purchased a 3 axis Clausing CNC knee mill. The controller has conversational programming capabilites and many canned cycles for 3d surfaces that i can use. However, I need some software that will allow me to do odd-shaped 3d surfaces.
I'm very proficient with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, so the CAD part isn't a problem. I've also worked with MasterCAM in the past. Unfortunately, I can't afford MasterCAM, so I'm looking for something a little cheaper that will get the job done.
I looked at BobCAD / CAM. So far I don't see any problems with it, but I was wondering if anyone had any problems with it or had suggestions on other good software.

[ger21]

http://www.grzsoftware.com

[motomitch1]

Onecnc has very good cad cam with good prices.

[nervis1]

You should check out Onecnc. Odds are you will be able to generate complex 3d toolpaths the first day you get it and the support is second to none. I have mastercam and onecnc, I will tell you in all honesty, I wish I had never purchased mastercam. It's been very difficult to learn to program 3d, the verify is straight out of 1988, and 4 axis toolpaths, well I think I spent about a week trying to generate toolpaths for a part just recently and finally gave up out of frustration.

Version ten is coming, if it's out of this world then I may stick with it, if not it's box and the software are going on the shelf as an expensive book end.

If you have time get an on line demo of Onecnc pro or expert mill. Have them cut a part of yours and see how easy it is.