Buddy 48 Alpha

[rayman]

Need some thoughts...New to CNC wise to old ways....30 yrs woodworker....unable to use power tools because of nerve problems in arms and hands not quitting though just looking for another way to make things..not a cabinet maker per say but do make them..I am looking at purchasing a buddy because of no room at the inn..If you own a Buddy give me your thoughts on your machine..my son runs Haas mill and lathe so he will be able to help me learn what i need to learn...

[erik_f]

With CNC there is still a great deal of hands on work that goes on...also you will spend a good amount of time on a computer. I'm not sure how your nerve damage will hinder you using a computer, loading and unloading the machine, as well as finishing your projects.

[rayman]

the biggest problem I have is holding on to saws, nail guns,sanders and such..was just curious about how the machine performed vs a fixed bed...

[erik_f]

My BT 48 is of the older aluminum slab table style, with care and set up I have been able to get very good results better than +/-.005". The new style with Powerstick only can be fitted with a more stable table material than the wood that comes with it if need be. I don't really see why one couldn't get the same results as I have. Being able to expand the machine easily with the new style is a real plus. I tried the gen I powerstick set up with out great success. Which I don't think you would have any of those problems with the current setup.

[classic_oak]

im 57 & have rheumatoid arthritis, had carppel tunel surgery on both hands. bought a buddy 32 in march so i can start doing smaller jobs that i can handle ( i have a hard time lifting 4x8 sheets & heavier cabinets) this is like learning a whole new trade & i love it. you still need to use small tools drills ect. for hold downs & setups, insert & tighten bits clean up edges & work on computer. now i wish i had bought a 48, but i hope to up grade with the power stick soon. i think no matter what your disability is their is a way to make money with one of these machines good luck jeff

[rayman]

I had cervical lamenectomy on all 7 levels of my neck something went wrong and now well have to live with it...No way I can lift a full sheet... I have built cabinets but not what I do,my son operates a Haas mill and lathe so hopefully he will spend sometime with me on setting tool paths and such..was considering 48 and started talking myself out of it but think i will go with the 48 a little more but not enough difference in price for me to get the 32..appreciate the comments no one in my area has one

[ed_lang]

Jeff, I am only 50 and I find it very hard to lift a full 4'X 8' sheet and have my PRTalpha96 up for sale now. I will be buying a smaller machine after my machine sells.

Raymond, sorry to hear about the "went wrong" but it seems you are pushing forward none the less.

Good luck guys!
Ed

[bcammack]

Okay, all together now: "If I'd known I was going to live this long, I would've treated myself better!" (Mickey Mantle)

From someone with cervical arthritis, macular degeneration, mild carpal tunnel syndrome, and feeling particularly achy and scuffed up after a weekend of collision repair work on my commuter car; all at the ripe old age of 54. (I am reminded of why I took up computers...)

Perhaps we can all form a support group, The Brotherhood of the Perpetual Analgesic or some thing similar...