These machines are no longer just popular for industrial use, they are also popular for home use. CNC routers are extremely accurate and versatile. If people can't afford new equipment people are often considering used equipment.
Used machines are still fairly expensive, however it is possible to make your own table using plans available on the internet. These plans allow you to save quite a lot of money.
Uses of a CNC Router
CNC routers are well suited to labor intensive tasks, or projects which would otherwise be impossible or require skilled labor. Common uses include creating metal inlays in wood. Even complicated designs are made easy by using CNC machines as compared to doing it all by hand.
CNC routers are also fantastic for making furniture. Every time you get high quality professional results. You can program the machines using computers so that you can get very accurate results. Anything can be engraved using these machines, from a very big sign to very small writing. It's actually quite easy to use these routers once you have had the proper training.
Small CNC routers run from standard 120V power supply, this means that it can be run in a normal house. If you're setting up a home workshop then this would be your best option. These small models typically cost around $7000 new, whereas a larger machine could cost $20,000 upwards. Buying a larger machine is defiantly a good idea as they can be half the price. If you will sell your furniture then you can hopefully treat it as an investment.
Buying a Used CNC Router
Buying a used router can be fantastic value for money, you can save half of the price you would otherwise have had to pay. You do need to make sure you take your time choosing a used machine so that you can find a good buy. You have to make sure you don't end up buying a lemon! A used machine probably won't be as powerful as a new one even if it's rarely used, however this may not matter.
You can opt to purchase a reconditioned machine, these have been inspected and had any parts replaced. This means that you can hopefully buy an as new machine. You must make sure you check out the options and find out exactly what has been done to the machine.
You should check out what form of support the company will offer you. Most will offer you installation and some basic training. It's very important to buy a machine with training or be aware that you will have to pay extra for it if you have never used one before.
