CNC Routers
 

Any of us have one?

Likes, don't likes?

I'm thinking about one for signs and displays

Might add in laser ingraver as well

Tips?

How big (what size table) are you looking?

All my "real world" experience is with large CNC routers (4 x 8' tables and larger).

Lately SnapMaker has caught my eye for small-scale stuff (same gantry, options for laser, router, and 3D printing).

I would like to go as big as I can I wish I could afford a 4x8 vacuum table

You might look at Velox - I have no experience with these but they look like a nice value-priced piece of equipment for a small shop.

Tormach makes some smaller machines as well (no experience with these either but I've seen them in educational settings - can't be too hard to use).

Aside from that, I think there are probably some used Onsrud and/or Biesse routers out there - lots of features if the price is right and the machine has been well maintained. Both are light-gantry machines and so fairly quick. Refitting one of these for laser engraving would be a chore.

Stay away from Anderson or Haas if you want a fast machine. Both of these are more suitable for heavy stuff.

The Velox is over my budget today.

Here's what I'm looking at in the XXL version

https://carbide3d.com/shapeoko/

Also in the same 'class' as shapeoko is X-carve: https://www.inventables.com/

and these: https://openbuildspartstore.com/machine-bundles/?sort=bestselling&limit=100&mode=4

https://millrightcnc.com/product/millright-cnc-mega-v-router-bundle/

This is the new first choice