Mill

**fingers80002** · August 16th, 2023, 02:35 PM

An X2 sized benchtop mill is about the smallest that I would use.
I have an X3 size and does fine.

**t1066** · August 18th, 2023, 01:00 PM

Originally Posted by M77MKII

Milling bits right into the chuck?

Sorry, catching up. The mill linked above says it has an R8 taper, so you can use R8 collets with it to hold end mills.

Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/8MILELAKE-Pre...dp/B072KDLBCW/

Edit: In general. I've used a trim router with a decent quality jig and as long as you use good quality end mills designed with aluminum in mind, you can make a decent quality functional finished lower.

A bench or knee mill will do it much easier and more accurately, but cost several times more. But it is a much more versatile tool. If you would ike to do some general gunsmithing, it will probably pay for itself over time. Like if you want to mill slides for reflex/red dot sights.

(some training/practice required, as well as some skill using the tool - going full CNC will take out a lot of the physical skill at a higher requirement of learning to program and setup fixtures properly - and being more expensive up front.)

**JaySmith** · August 18th, 2023, 01:16 PM

I have used my mill to create many different parts/tools aside from lowers. One of my favorites ws an ultra low profile mount for the holosun 510 on the ps90. Dropped the height of the sight by nearly 2" vs stock. One did not exist, but they made ones for similar optics. The price was $$$ though and I thought, it can't be that difficult. to make one for the optic I want.

**M77MKII** · August 25th, 2023, 05:09 PM

Don't have a garage.I need to put in the basement.

**t1066** · August 27th, 2023, 02:07 PM

Originally Posted by M77MKII

Don't have a garage.I need to put in the basement.

Depending on the size of mill you get, consider hiring riggers to place it in your basement. Their job is to know how to move heavy equipment safely.

**JaySmith** · September 2nd, 2023, 09:36 PM

After 2 short hours I'm nearly done the rough in on an 80% upper. Don't let any politician tell you it's easier or cheaper. Unless you're time is worthless and you do 400 uppers, you will never save money.

**fingers80002** · September 3rd, 2023, 07:23 AM

Originally Posted by JaySmith

After 2 short hours I'm nearly done the rough in on an 80% upper. Don't let any politician tell you it's easier or cheaper. Unless you're time is worthless and you do 400 uppers, you will never save money.

Your asking for trouble having an endmill in a drill chuck.