Is this a deal?

[wbegg]

I've been running my home made cnc for a while now, and just recently got into machining metal. I've been looking for bits 1/4" and under for a while, and stumbled upon an e-bay deal that might work, might not. Y'all tell me.

Minature solid carbide end mills 1/32 to 1/4 dia. | eBay

[Fish4Fun]

If by "metal" you mean aluminum AND your machine is rigid enough to machine aluminum and your spindle has plenty of torque at lower RPMs, then the answer is "maybe", lol. That particular auction does not list the sizes, flute count, quantities or conditions of the bits in question. I would suggest you "ask the seller" to list some details about the bits before you OPEN the bidding @ $70. For example if 20 of the bits have 3/16in shaft diameter and you can't get a 3/16 collet for your spindle then you might not be very happy. Again, if the majority of the bits are truly "minature" (sic) then there are likely better deals to be had. I have bought a few lots of 50 1/8in shank carbide bits for under $50 (one set 4-flute "roughing", the other 2-flute). On the other hand, if they happen to be mostly Made in USA 1/4in ball and straight end mills in "like new" condition then it could be the deal of the century. I would think you would want mostly 1/4" and 1/8" straight bits, that is certainly what I use the most of. You will find out very quickly if your machine is rigid enough for them ;-)

Hope that helps,

Fish

[fizzissist]

If they are in fact new, it's a helluva a deal at $70.

Not new? It's a crap shoot.

[keebler303]

Additionally, its better for you not to "broadcast" the great deal you found on ebay before its over. You are just advertising it to other possible competitors which will make your price go up.

Good Luck
Matt

[fizzissist]

I've been running my home made cnc for a while now, and just recently got into machining metal. I've been looking for bits 1/4" and under for a while, and stumbled upon an e-bay deal that might work, might not. Y'all tell me.

Minature solid carbide end mills 1/32 to 1/4 dia. | eBay

Some of the mills are Brubaker 91145's, single end, solid carbide, uncoated, 4fl, 1/32", that retail for around $9.

I might bid on the lot...thanks for the tip!