Originally Posted by sectrix  I am trying to limit myself as little as possible. For example I'd like a fourth axis and the rigidity and power to mill steel or other harder metals. |
If you're going to spend $6000, get a mill that will handle 100% of your needs.
Don't forget to check
Ebay, you may find a great deal if you're close enough.
There are some round columns available close to you're price range but lets not go there.
The Super X4 comes in around
$5500
up north and they are phasing out the X3, special order only.
Might be tough locating one now.
You could go the DIY route as kits are available for the
CNC conversion but it's easier to get a turnkey.
Syil America still have their complete
Super X3 conversion kit for $2195, add a
Grizzly Tools SX3 or
Harbor Freight X3
and the total is about $3250 - 3500.
KDNtool looks like they may have an X3, contact them.