Quote:
Originally Posted by Don Rotolo
Or to put it another way, just because it's CNC doesn't mean it is better.
You can make absolutely outstanding parts with a manual mill, and you can turn out scrap with a CNC machine. And scrap is even more likely from a cheap CNC machine.
You can also learn more about machining from a manual mill.
There is no such thing as a cheap milling machine. Either you pay up front for good quality, or you pay after the fact in poor quality, frustrating setup & operation, and wear/damage.
If you have $40k for a nice Haas, go for it, you won't be disappointed. But if that gets cut to $10k (or $4k), go for a nice manual mill, used. There are used tool dealers all over who can help you find what you need and can afford.
Don
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Indeed, another thing people don't always realize is CNCs don't always make perfect parts the first time. Be sure to measure them after to verify all dimensions (especially bearing bores, as cutters can be undersize).