Need basic understanding of what I need

[awwolfe]

I am TOTALLY new to cnc milling and looking for basic information on the type of machine that I'd need to accomplish my goals....

Looking for something to do knife and sword milling from rectangular stock. Sizes would be up to 42" long,4" wide, 1" thick. Looking to cut s7 tool steel and bronze. I have designs in SolidWorks, but could transfer to other systems if needed.

But I have no idea even if I need vertical, horizontal, 3,4,5 axis, or other things.

Can anyone throw their 2 cents in, or send me some links/info on what type cnc machine I should be looking into?????

Thanks a million (sorry for my complete lack of knowledge on the subject),

Tony

[MattTheNoob]

I think a 4 axis would be the most efficient. Your normal three axiis, plus a horizontal rotary axis. Or, if you are going to be making lots of the same design, you could probably just build creative fixtures and get by with a 3-axis. Vibration of the blade could be a problem for you in any setup.