I am looking to convert my grizzly mini mill to CNC but am wondering if it will be as capable as I hope. my plan is to start with the x and y axis with dual shaft nema 23 motors from probotix with handweels for manual operation, then move on to the z axis. All axes will have zero backlash ballscrews.

I would like to be able to make things that are really not even possible with a manual mill. I don't know a lot about the inexpensive g code software like mach 3 and am wondering if i could realistically import an stl or step file and generate a g code to cut complex contours. Is this possible?

Does anyone have any pictures of parts they made off of a mill setup like this? Any suggestions for software packages for the best results without spending an arm and a leg?

THanks!

Rick