The funny thing about Haas machines is that they end up getting a little bashing in many threads, even when they are not the topic or did nothing wrong. It kind of a jealousy and envy thing.
Are they the most rigid---No! Are they the fastest---No! Do they have the most tools or the fastest tool changer---No! Do they have the most powerful controller with the most options---No! Do they have the best of anything on a machine by machine basis---MMMM No! Do they have their issues----Yes!
But, what Haas does have is a complete business plan or system that supplies their customers with very good machines that can do whatever job you throw at them. And, at a price that is hard to compete with and a system of supporting factory outlets that can't be beat. You can always get parts, you can always get help on the phone or in person. They are not going out of business anytime soon and they have a range of machines and products that is amazing. A new machine is never far from delivery.
Like Delw said, if you are turning out thousands or millions of the same parts and speed is your primary concern, you should probably buy another brand. But, if you are like me, my shop and every shop I have ever worked in or owned, we are turning out many different jobs a day. As they would say in the movie business---running and gunning! I almost never have a job that runs the same program for more than 8 hours.
If you are opening a job shop, I would recommend the Haas to anyone. Easy to run, easy to teach others to run and reliable.
Mike
Two Haas VF-2's, Haas HA5C, Haas HRT-9, Hardinge CHNC 1, Bother HS-300 Wire EDM, BobCAD V23, BobCAD V28