584,800 active members*
4,451 visitors online*
Register for free
Login
IndustryArena Forum > Hobby Projects > Gunsmithing > Suggestions for brand new
Results 1 to 3 of 3
  1. #1
    Join Date
    Apr 2022
    Posts
    1

    Suggestions for brand new

    Hey guys brand new to the cnc world. I’m looking to purchase my first cnc mill. Looking to start out doing small projects in wood or similar materials and work my way slowly into learning optic cuts on slides primarily but also slightly more advanced cuts. Currently this won’t be a production business more a hobby that I hope to grow over time. If anyone has the knowledge base to recommend fairly inexpensive ~$2000 beginner cnc mill that will do what I’m looking for as in cutting slides on handguns that would be awesome. Like I stated I only know very little from the research I’ve done (ie youtube, this forum, various websites) so ideally a cnc that isn’t incredibly difficult to write code for would be ideal but this is something I plan to put a lot of time into so the capability of the machine is more of a concern than anything.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Dec 2013
    Posts
    5717

    Re: Suggestions for brand new

    Almost all CNC machines use G-code, and 3 axis G-code is pretty much standard with some small differences machine to machine. Doesn't really matter if it is a milling machine, router, or even a lathe. Easy to program is not really an issue, they are all about the same.

    As far as a $2000 machine, that is another issue. When doing precision metal work, rigidity is required, and this means mass as well as machine design. About the closest mill that is close to your budget might be the Taig micro mills. https://taigtools.com/product-catego...c-micro-mills/ A bit light in my opinion, but a pretty decent machine that would do the work that you describe.

    Another machine that would be in the ballpark if you can find a used one is an EMCO Concept 50 or 55. A very high quality machine, these sold new for around $25,000, but I have seen them on the used market in your budget range. But plan on upgrading the electronics, not a big deal.
    Jim Dawson
    Sandy, Oregon, USA

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Posts
    683

    Re: Suggestions for brand new

    You will not be cutting slides with a $2000 "beginner" CNC. UNLESS you get some really old machine with "good bones" at a surplus sale. However a small desktop machine would be good for learning. You can find used functional machines in the 10k range that will be fine for cutting metal.

Similar Threads

  1. C-Axi HSD Brand Aggregate *BRAND NEW*
    By mlepisto2 in forum For Sale Only
    Replies: 0
    Last Post: 09-24-2014, 07:41 PM
  2. VTL Brand Suggestions Needed
    By ScrapMetalDave in forum Uncategorised MetalWorking Machines
    Replies: 7
    Last Post: 01-19-2012, 11:27 PM
  3. Brand Name Laser Machine Choices? Suggestions?
    By shaun091382 in forum Laser Engraving / Cutting Machine General Topics
    Replies: 7
    Last Post: 03-05-2011, 05:02 AM

Tags for this Thread

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •