Advice on next machine

[NDP]

Looking for a bit of advice. I'm currently running VCarve Pro on a CNC Shark HD4 router in a prototype/low-volume production environment, and am looking into another machine with a larger 4x8 workspace. I don't have any experience with other software, but am willing to learn.

What would be a logical next-step? Thank you for your opinion!

[Daniel S]

Hi NDP,
I will give you my 2 cents worth. I still have my Shark HD4 but I was looking for a more ridged machine. I purchased the CAMaster Stinger and so far I am very happy with it. I wish I had added the Laser which so far is not available as a upgrade from the company.
I did add the extension for future addition of the rotary. The Stinger has very smooth cuts, and are very accurate with no lines when profile cuts at each tab like I would get with my Shark so almost no sanding needed when cutting out projects. I really like the FTC for changing bits for accurate Z settings. Many good machines out there to look at.
Dan

[Rcnewcomb]

I'm a fan of both CAMaster and ShopBot. Both have excellent support and active user forums.

[SteveNelson46]

I'm a fan of both CAMaster and ShopBot. Both have excellent support and active user forums.

Plus 1 on that Randall. There isn't a perfect machine for everyone but I sure love my Camaster. If I had it to do over again I would give Gary Campbell's GCNC Ultimate Machine a very close look. Here is a link to his YouTube page.

https://www.youtube.com/user/Islaww1/featured

EDIT: Randall,
I see you have a GCNC. How do you like it?

[ElevationCreations]

What would be a logical next-step? Thank you for your opinion!

Determine your budget, your work envelope requirements, options you absolutely require, the space and power you have available for the machine, and any restrictions placing the machine in the work location. Make a list so you can compare comparable machines.

The machine interface may be different than what you are presently using. If you are using VCP presently you should be able to use it on the new machine since it outputs G-Code, it will just require the post processor for the machine.

[Adrian]

I was forced into a Shopbot as there was no way I could get any other 8x4 machine at the time through the access I had to the workshop. I've never regretted the decision though.

The number one thing to look for IMO, unless you are totally confident in your ability to diagnose issues and source replacement parts, is the level of support.

I've had two issues with my ShopBot in the 11 years I've owned it and both were sorted in a couple of hours despite it being the early hours in the US when I first raised the issue.

[ken.gentry]

Anybody built an Avid CNC machine? I've been looking at the 5x5 Pro kit.

[Fire_Instructor]

Anybody built an Avid CNC machine? I've been looking at the 5x5 Pro kit.

I am just finishing-up building an Avid PRO 4848. I'm brand new to the CNC world, as this is my first machine. Tomorrow morning I'll surface my spoilboard, and then make my first "production" cut. It's a dustboot file downloadable from the Avid website.

I found the build to be relatively easy, with very few problems. Of the literally THOUSANDS of parts, they sent me only three wrong bolts, and when I called and questioned why it wasn't going together as it should, they overnighted the three bolts to me. They have been incredibly responsive the three or four times that I called with a question or clarification. I give them "five stars", thus far.

Any specific questions about the build?

Rick (Fire Instructor)
Backstep Woodworking

[Rcnewcomb]

I see you have a GCNC. How do you like it?

I absolutely love the GCNC. Gary Campbell customized a rock solid machine.

• It has a 24x36" work area which is fine for the projects I do and my very limited shop space, i.e. a corner in my garage.
• The rotary is easy to set up and has the XY, and Z preprogrammed.
• Having 10" of Z travel is great
• The 5 position tool changer allows me with use multiple tools with no worries about forgetting to re-zero the Z axis on tool changes.
• I've only stalled out the 2.2KW spindle once and that was when I was doing something foolish (1/2" end mill with 4" cutting depth in 16/4 redwood at 180IPM)

[scotttarnor]

I will get bashed for this but both of my CNC are Nextwave and I have got excellent results and tech support has been awesome when needed. Hobby and supplement work not production.