[SophieGirl]

OK, so I probably misread his email. I guess he gave me the size of the upgrades. The upgrade's are 1610 and 2010. So they would double the speed. One more question. I know that MX3660 has "steps" that go from 1 to 1/64, and from what I understand the G540 goes from 1 to 1/10. What does that mean in terms of what it does and how would that affect the work being done with it? What is good and what is not good.

[SophieGirl]

Update. I ended up purchasing an XZero Raptor 2 x 3 CNC machine with the MX3660 and the 281oz motors. I also purchased the Hitachi M12VC router to mount to it. My next step is to get some bits to use so that I can start cutting. My problem now is trying to figure out which bits I will need in order to start doing some work. I have attached a couple of pictures that show what kinds of things I will be cutting in the wood. I realize that I will be needing some small bits, but my router only came with 1/2" and 1/4" collets. Does anyone know if Hitachi or anyone else makes 1/8" collets that would fit my router, or any other solution to use the smaller shank bits. Also, what bits should I get. I want to be able to carve things as well as engraving letters and such into wood and acrylic. I am pretty sure I will be needing a v-bit, but what size, angle (90, 60, etc) and so forth. What other bits would I be needing. I read on a few forum post that many people use regular router bits. The theory is sound that if a router works well with people pushing it, why wouldn't it work with a machine pushing it. I understand that bits with the bearing mount would not work, but other than that, would router bits work just as well as CNC End mills? I look forward to the reponses. Thanks in advance for your help, Stacey
Attachment 256940Attachment 256942

[Anniepoo]

I'd suggest for your first work you get some bits that aren't so tiny - like anything, you'll need some practiced, and it's insanely easy to snap tiny bits.
The 'bravo company' piece looks like it was made with a V bit. I use this one
Autek Hi Quality 3D Wood Making Router CNC Engraving V Groove Bit End Mill 32mm 90 Degree(V63290)
(stick that in Amazon)
you'll probably want a 90 degree V bit. If you're doing lots of V bit work, you'll also want a 60
You'll need a 1/8" ball end bit. mine has a taper behind the ball and uses a 1/2" shank
For roughing out you'll want a 1/4" straight bit and a 1/2" straight bit

[awerby]

You can get bits with a 1/4" or 1/2" shank that are smaller sized on the working ends. The other way to go is to put a precision bushing on the small tool to bring it up to a size that will fit in your collets: MLCS Woodworking Adaptor Bushings and Ball Bearing Guides

[ger21]

Precisebits.com has 1/8" collets for the Hitachi.

[SophieGirl]

Gerry, I went to this link and clicked on Hitachi, but is sent me to the Bosch info.

[ger21]

Look on the left side, it's compatible with both the Bosch and Hitachi M12VC

[SophieGirl]

So, if I were to get only 3 or 4 bits to do the 3D carving like I have shown you below, what would be the top 3 or 4 bits you would recommend I use, or at least 3 or 4 bits that every CNCer should have in his/her arsenal? What are your thoughts on V bits as far as 90deg vs. 60deg, 1/4" vs. 1/2", etc.

[ger21]

For 3D carving, a tapered ballnose is probably your best best. Get a 1/16" for finer detail, or a 1/8" for large carvings.

For V Carving, a 60° is better for small letters, and a 90° or even 120° works better for larger letters. The sharper the angle, the deeper the cut. A lot of people like CMT laser point V bits from Amazon.

[SophieGirl]

OK, great information on bits. I now have a great starting point for end mills. After looking at them on-line, where can I get some of these bits with 1/4" shanks that do not cost an arm and a leg. When I get started, I am guessing I will be messing some up until I can get a feel for the feed rates and spindle rates. I am looking for some good "starter" bits to get me going. Some of the ones that I have seen out there are rather expensive. I would love to go with some 1/8" shank bits, but it seems I need to mortgage my home to not only buy a 1/8" collet for my router, but to have it sent to me (17.00 just to ship a .1 lb item) is just outrageous. Any thoughts?

[fixtureman1]

Carvewright has some that are very good and 1/4 inch shaft. you need to order them without the adapter.

[ger21]

For practicing, just buy cheap bits from Ebay.
Rather than a tapered ballnose, which is expensive, get some 1/8" shank 1/8" ballnose, which you can get for $5 or less. Buy from Drillman1 on Ebay, where you can get excellent 1/8" shank bits for very little money.

[ShaunYoung]

Annie, Where did you buy your used cnc from?

[Anniepoo]

Annie, Where did you buy your used cnc from?

I bought mine from a private hobbyist; He built it from plans he purchased.

CNC machine DIY plans and build instructions

mine looks like the DIYLILCNC on that page.

[louieatienza]

I would seriously consider the Leadsine drive if you go with the larger steppers, as it is capable of 60V and over 6A