[syntaxing]

I had a CNC, mill, and lathe but the biggest problem is how expensive it is to operate it (excluding the machine). You want a good end mill? $100. Vacuum plate because why not? $400. You have to use some serious cash to machine parts which forced me to pretty much use my 3D printer most of the time since it cost me $2 rather than $50 to make the part.

[PragmaticPulp]

I always warn people that they need to budget about 50% above and beyond the cost of their CNC machine to actually use it.

End mills, work holding, dust collection, and other accessories will quickly add up.

[bluGill]

I bought a big old mill for $200. Where can I find even one cat-50 tool holder and cutter for $100? I have room for such a massive machine, most people don't which is why I got it so cheap. (or a way to move - the typical fork lift won't budge it)

I actually got two for that price, but on closer inspection one has a fatal break in the casting and so it is scrap - I expect to make $2500 once I get all the valuable parts off of it