Shop Task Gunmaster 17-32 XMTC Worth getting?

[sharpshooter90]

Originally Posted by Lemo No, that is not alright on ballscrews. Acme or comparable yes, and that would go along with the cost for them... but for ball screws that is disappointing. I probably end up buying a mill and retrofit it... Lemo

Shoptask uses the NOOK brand rolled thread ball screws which are advertised by NOOK as having 0.003-0.005" lash. If the lash is more than that it would most likely be in the adjustment of the ball thrust bearings or a loose mounting bracket. Loose pulleys on the stepper motor or lead screw will also show as lash. My machine is right within the advertised range, and with backlash compensation properly set in the software, I get excellent repeatabililty. If you plan to do your own conversion, the rolled thread screws can be had for about 125.00 per foot including the nuts and shipping. You can add another 100.00 per axis and get the double nut setup for less lash. The next step up is ground thread screws, but they will be more than the machine itself. Be realistic in your plans- if you want better than 0.001" general repeatability, plan to go to a much larger and more expensive machine.

[digibit]

While not the current "Patriot" model, this site has compiled what appears to be honest opinion, experience and a decent selection of photos as well as info.
http://the-alchemist.com/