CNC Routers

[Jim Bremner]

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?

[fanaudical]

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).

[Jim Bremner]

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

[fanaudical]

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.

[Jim Bremner]

The Velox is over my budget today.

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

https://carbide3d.com/shapeoko/

[dad911]

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

[Jim Bremner]

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

This is the new first choice