Buying a mill

[CyberGolem]

Hi,
I've decided to buy an entry level mini mill with the thought that it can be later converted to CNC capabilities. Ultimately I want a machine that can also be operated manually once the steppers are put on the machine -if possible.

I've shopped around and my tentative conclusion is to go with the HiTorque Mini Mill from LittleMachineShop. I'd rather have something with a bit more travel, but the larger mills are well beyond my budget.

1. Is the solid column preferred over the angled?
2. Are there any smaller gantry mills I'm overlooking?
3. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks,
--Chaz

BTW: Special thanks to Keith & Bill from the Southern NH CNC Club for donating stepper motors and drivers to my fledgling cause.

[doorknob]

This is not exactly what you asked for, but it's probably worth mentioning that a good way to do manual machining once you have converted a manual mill to CNC is to do it electronically via the steppers, using a hand-held controller. sometimes called a "pendant" or "MPG" (manual pulse generator).

While you could use dual-shaft stepper motors with handles connected to the aft ends of the shafts (and some people do that), that can lead to problems with the steppers acting as electrical generators which will back-feed voltages into your stepper driver electronics if they remain connected while you are cranking them and which may possibly result in the release of unwanted "smoke" as well as much in the way of loud and colorful cursing.

BTW, the last mention that I can find of the Southern NH CNC Club is from over a year ago. Does it still have meetings? Is there a website for it? I have moved out of Southern NH (I was actually living in SW NH, in the Keene area), but I would like to return there someday if things work out well.

[CyberGolem]

Thanks for the info Doorknob.

The club met just a few weeks ago at Bill's house. I couldn't attend but Keith said it went well and they intend to get back on track with more. I ended up driving up a few weeks later to meet Keith and Bill. These guys are stellar. I live in RI but the trek is well worth it.

--Chaz