Hi there, I found this forum while researching for a benchtop mini-mill.

I am thinking of buying a mini-mill that can be upgraded for CNC and right now, Sherline is my top candidate -- either the basic 5000 series or the 2000 series with the 8-direction capability.

This is what I am planning to make:



and this:



My question has to do with the mill's capabilities. I know that rough shaping and drilling is not a problem, but can it do the detailed engraving? I am particularly concerned that the engraving will have to be done on a curving surface (as in the pics above) and am wondering if 1) this is doable, and 2) if I would need the 8-direction mill to do so.

Thanks so much in advance for your replies! As I said, I am in the research stage, and as such am a total newbie, so please forgive me if this question is too simple for some of you folks.