Hi folks.

I'm Pete, and as it says above I'm from down here in North Kent. I'm just doing some groundwork before embarking on my first CNC machine build. I have a modest 1980's manual lathe and a small but sturdy 1952 milling machine and I usually use these to make odd parts for motorbikes - usually for beers (even though I hardly drink at all).

I want to build myself a sturdy vertical milling machine with probably a 3Kw spindle motor and greater capacity than my Herbert mill (12"x, 6"y) - something akin to this - in fact I already have the column, but before I get into spending too much money I think I will build a smaller machine, just to 'learn the ropes' so to speak.

I'm not a great fan of the idea of gantry machines, so I think I will either build myself a small upright mill or maybe a lightweight lathe.

Wish me luck - and prepare for some questions!

Pete.