I am looking to do some engraving on aluminum on my 770. Using a solid bit in a collet works, but the parts are not perfectly flat across, and the markings arent a uniform depth. To fix that, I am told one needs to use a spring loaded tool like this: http://www.2linc.com/engraving.htm But that is $375, and I'd rather not spend it if I dont have to.
If I were to grind a spare tap into an engraving bit, or get an engraving bit that fits a tap holder, could I use my tension/compression tapping head as the spring loaded tool holder?
I know that for axial tools like this a side load is a no-no, but would engraving cuts damage the mechanism at all?
Has anyone tried this? Does it work? Will I damage the t/c head if I try it? Are there any alternative spring loaded engraving tools that are cheap? (~$100)
Thanks!