[EricH]

Sketchup is really good for concept sketches, if you've passed its learning curve. But, if you need a detailed machining drawing or something like that, you really want to go into Inventor or Solidworks to make sure everything is matching up properly.

I once used Sketchup. I had a 4-part assembly concept sketch model that in Solidworks would have taken about half an hour (4 parts, 1 assembly). Using Sketchup, it took more like an hour, and was made as a single part.

Admittedly, I do have more experience with Solidworks and Inventor, but the only thing I'd use Sketchup for would be concept sketches if I couldn't get to Solidworks.