"Off the Shelf" Benchtop CNC Mills

[jeffo2001]

Hi,
I'm considering purchasing a small Benchtop CNC Mill to use for small
moldmaking. I'm wanting a complete system I can take out of the box and start using.

Does anyone have any reccommendations or other insight they care to
share? I've looked at the Taig and MaxNC websites so far.

Any opinions on these small cnc machines would be greatly appreciated.

Jeff

[ataxy]

syil, but it really depends on the work envelope you need

[cncuser1]

Yup, define your requirements first, then choose a hardware and software solution that suits your requirements.

Include sherline and tormach in your search

[jeffo2001]

Thanks guys! I'm looking around 9"x5"x5" (XYZ) or so. the material will
be aluminum and/or UHMW.

I use Solidworks and would like to have a system that can take my 3d
model and use it to make a part.

Jeff

[ataxy]

ok so a mill like the syilx3 would fit your need and a bit more

[RTP_Burnsville]

If price is not an issue take a look at the HAAS Office Mill.

[ataxy]

Originally Posted by RTP_Burnsville If price is not an issue take a look at the HAAS Office Mill.

definitly if the price is not an issue this would be by far the best bet

[cjdavis618]

Although I built my own CNC, I have heard nothing bad about tormach.

[bilinghm]

The Y on the X2 is 4" without modifications. Some additional Y can be created with a little machining, but probably not a full additional inch.

[Stepper Monkey]

I'm not sure what the definition of benchtop is that you are using, but if well over half a ton=benchtop, then yes, the Tormach is a very nice machine.

I'm not sure what "out of the box" means for you, but if that means a year of machining and modifications, and replacement of at least 60% of the machines parts to get basic adequate function, then an X2 might indeed be in the cards. It isn't much of a machine, but the fact that you have to go through such inane gyrations to get one to function means you get inducted into a cult of oppressively smug moral superiority if you own one, which seems to be their major attraction to many. It is the antithesis of "out of the box" function, as they hold those of us who just want a machine to just work as specified to be unimaginative, uncreative peons. If feeling better about yourself by demeaning others is more important than actually making parts then it's definitely the machine for you.

If you really just want an out-of-the-box machine solution for light work, a Sherline or a Taig are what you are looking for. A Syil X3 might work for you as well depending on your future needs - it doesn't really have a significantly larger working/cutting area than the other two, but it is a hell of a lot sturdier so you can cut steel and the like in addition to the softer materials. It is also obviously a lot bigger and heavier.
Stay away from the MaxNC at all costs, the website looks nice, but it is essentially a scam. Ask ANYONE who has actually owned or used one and that will settle the issue for you permanently. There are threads on here going back years about them.

[jeffo2001]

Thanks Guys...this type of information is priceless. Stepper, thanks for the info on MaxNC....I'll stay away from it.

I have an X1 that I bought about a year ago with the intentions of converting it. After replacing the cheap gears, motor control and motor, I've decided to give it up. It's now just basically used for a drill press.

I'm still considering building my own but that will take longer and i'm ready to start making parts on a cnc so my next step is to purchase one.

Thanks again!

jeff

[pzzamakr1980]

Hey jeffo, if your interested in the cost of Do It Yourself take a look at my post and take my recommendation and don't. The syil sx3 would fit the bill plus some, and if my x3 is any indication, it is a nice machine. Also I have learned after two mills and now looking for a new bigger one, so get something bigger than you think you need, because at some point you will need it. If you get the Syil, make sure you get the high speed spindle operation. If you will be cutting uhmw you want a nice fast spindle. Also, the Tormach was mentioned, and if you leave near Wisconsin, they have one listed on ebay for 8000 that has nearly 11000 worth of stuff on it. Its a demo model and not crated so they wont ship it. That mill is way beyond your needs now, but might be what you want in a year.