BobsCNC Evolution 4 - Any good?

[Mackie]

Hi JAZZCNC,

Thanks so much for your thoughts, really helpful. Initially we would be looking at small run stuff and prototyping so, as you say, perhaps useful to learn on. I guess we could always sell the machine if/when we needed to upgrade. I certainly take your point however regarding the lower level machines becoming sloppy - that is a concern. I have a few more questions if you don't mind and are able to comment? 1. If you HAD to buy one of these 'entry level' machines, what would you be watching out for? 2. Have you an idea of which make you would consider? 3. If you were to advise on a type of machine that would be more likely to suit our needs at this point, what would you suggest? Thanks again - time and any thoughts much appreciated. Cheers, Mac.

[JAZZCNC]

Hi JAZZCNC,

Thanks so much for your thoughts, really helpful. Initially we would be looking at small run stuff and prototyping so, as you say, perhaps useful to learn on. I guess we could always sell the machine if/when we needed to upgrade. I certainly take your point however regarding the lower level machines becoming sloppy - that is a concern. I have a few more questions if you don't mind and are able to comment? 1. If you HAD to buy one of these 'entry level' machines, what would you be watching out for? 2. Have you an idea of which make you would consider? 3. If you were to advise on a type of machine that would be more likely to suit our needs at this point, what would you suggest? Thanks again - time and any thoughts much appreciated. Cheers, Mac.

No problem, For learning yes ok, but it will be an expensive lesson as these cheap machines lose money very quickly. Often it's better to just save up or find the extra as it will workout much cheaper long term. Not just in the machine saving but other hidden things like tool breakage, material waste, loss of time, etc. These things quickly add up and cancel any savings of buying the cheap machines. Then you have re-sale value, if you buy wisely then you can often make money or come out even if things don't work out.

But here's my answers to your questions.

#1: I wouldn't.!!. . . . I would save up and buy something better.
#2: Probably the Work Bee if I was really really desparate.
#3: PM sent.