Which knee mill should I choose?

[DMI]

Wondering if anyone has any input regarding the purchase of a new 2 axis cnc knee mill. I am looking at the following machines. Southwestern Industries with a Prototrak SMX control, a Sharp with Acu-rite Millpwr control, or a Bridgeport with the Acu-rite Millpwr control. I am definitely leaning towards the Acu-rite control. It appears to have more options than the Prototrak. I am not very familiar with either. This is actually going to be purchased for a farm shop that my father and I have. My father has recently retired as tool maker, and he has used Proto traks for the last 20 years. He will not be able to survive without a small cnc mill. I am not looking for high production, looking for something simple to use, and reliability.

Thanks
Damian

[underthetire]

The sharps are actually a pretty good mill. Go 3 axis IMO way better capabilities.

[DMI]

IMO ?

[DareBee]

IMO = In My Opinion

IMO - you will rue the day you didn't spend a few extra G and get 3 axis.
Like when you need to drill 200 X 1/64 holes in steel plate by hand - because you didn't get 3 axis.

All the machines and controls you list are top quality (I prefer the Fagor control). Buy whichever you like based on features and value.

[gdwood3rd]

definitely the sharp !

[TimK]

I have a like new 5 HP 40 Taper Acer Knee mill with the proto trac 2 axis control on it with vise and tooling.
Give me a call at 413-443-4406 and I'll send you pictures and what comes with it.
Tim Kushi
Moldmaster Eng. Inc.

[DMI]

TIm

That would be great if you sent me a couple pictures. What series of Proto trak controller does it have?

Email address: dinbody@grobsystems.com


Thanks
Damian