a.moore wrote:
Those sites are good - thanks.
Having used other HF tools, I'm just not sure what to expect in terms of quality. Apparently they stopped carrying the mini mill in stores so I couldn't even go and play with it before buying. I'm afraid of buying it, using it a few times, and finding that it doesn't have the stiffness to do stuff that would be useful on a Locost such as milling brackets from aluminum, pocketing parts, etc.
I know it won't be as big or as rugged as the Bridgeport I've used in the past but for what I did over 90% of the time on that mill it was way overkill. I just wouldn't want to go in the other direction and buy a $500 tool that is completely out of its league.
On those sites I mentioned, you will find it is easy to increase the accuracy of the mill provided you are willing to spend some time learning how to adjust it. The quality control on these mills has increased substantially over the years. They are capable of accuracy within a few thousands of an inch over useful distances. They are certainly accurate enough for work on small parts on a Locost. If you look for a used one, you may be able to get it for $200. There are several variations on these mills sold by different companies.
Here is a handy comparison chart ==>
http://littlemachineshop.com/Info/minimill_compare.phpThe next step up is the drill/mill class of machine, which are larger, but still small compared to a Bridgeport. They are too heavy to lift by hand unless disassembled or if unless you have a shop crane. The best known brand is Rong Fu. You can find these used too, but you're looking at maybe $1500 used if you're lucky. They can be had with 110V power.
Rong Fu ==>
http://www.rongfu.com/en/milling-drilling-machine.htmlAfter that, there are some small machine tool companies with products (made in various places), but the price goes way up. Here is one company ==>
http://www.smithy.com/If you go to a full size mill, even a used one, you're looking at big bucks to buy it, expensive tooling, a lot of space for the machine, need for a good slab to put it on, machinery movers to get it there plus a substantial 220V circuit. Most guys don't have all that.
Going back to the mini-mill, there is an accurate, American-made alternative in the mini mill area, but it is more expensive than the imports. It works and can cut a number of exotic materials and even hardened steel. I think they have some videos on their website ==>
http://www.sherline.com/Cheers,