[DaStompa]

Hey folks!

I finally got my CNC conversion working, everything works pretty great, I'm currently using solidworks, with HSMxpress (free) as my CAM software, Its pretty nice, but I'm getting to a point where i'd like a full 3d solution, which would end up in the ballpark of 10k+ for a full license (youch!)

So I've been shopping around for another cam package thats preferably compatible with solidworks, but not really scaled/priced for a full fledged machine shop, which has been problematic since google wants to steer you towards folks that pay advertising, can anyone suggest a few options for me to try out? I'm looking for something that can handle full 3d curved surfaces, 4th axis support and such would be nice, but isn't really necessary.

[ger21]

Fusion 360?

[eman5oh]

I will second Fusion 360, In my opinion it is the best free hobby software and even holds it own against stuff that costs a considerable amount.

[DaStompa]

Well I looked into it, I "thought" fusion was just a 1 year license then you had to buy it, but it turns it its a recurring license, until they change the rules for hobbyists, I'll give it a shot! thanks!

[awerby]

If you need 4th axis functionality, give DeskProto a try; we've got good pricing for hobbyists.