Hello

[dweed1531]

Hi,

My name is Doug. I live in Montana. In the fall i will be taking classes to become a machinest.

Im looking forward to begin learning. So much so i would like to start learning on my own mill now. I have never machined before. Is there a mini mill someone might recommend i use to learn on?

Thank you for any help.

 

[Steve Shannon]

Welcome, Doug. I'm in Montana also. I'm just a retired hobbyist, and new to this site, but if there's anything I can do to help, please let me know. Best of luck with your training.


Steve Shannon, P.E.

 

[thomas s]

Welcome Doug

 

[brino]

Hi Doug,

Welcome to the site.

My advice is to read here for a bit, I know this has been asked before.
Here's a few pages to get you started.....
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/how-to-select-a-milling-machine-a-guide.30066/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/buying-a-new-mill.12974/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/need-info-before-buying-a-new-mill.16749/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/what-mill-mill-drill-should-i-buy.37778/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/purchasing-first-vertical-mill-decisions.41489/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/mill-question-time-to-buy-my-first-one.8415/
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/threads/which-new-mill-should-i-buy.781/

Get to know the types (horizontal, vertical), the parts (head, table, column, knee, etc.).
Pay specific attention to the differences between types; things like having to re-find the work edge after raising the head of a round-column mill, etc.

Once you have that and know the sizes of the work you need to do you will be in a great position to choose a mill.

-brino

 

[royesses]

Welcome Doug. This forum will be a great resource for you when you get into school.

 

[dweed1531]

Thank you for the warm welcome.

I have been having troubles logging into my account to respond.

 

[Machinehead]

Welcome, I'm assuming you will be going for CNC classes, that's what I did and have been in the trade for 10 years now. It's very rewarding, learn all you can and get into a good shop!