Laser for Barrel Marking

[cast1]

Could anyone direct me to a laser marking system suitable for barrel work. I’m so tired of stencils and electrodes. It’s my least favorite part of the process. I’m figuring around $5k. Reasonable?

 

[akmike47]

There’s a thread about lasers around here somewhere I think but can’t remember the title

Here’s one

Gunsmithing - Laser Etcher

I'm very interested in going to a laser etch system for my shop. I've long used Acid Etch and it's been fine, but with an increase in overall work and one off chamberings. I'm getting tired of stencils and how little they last. Not to mention the other opportunities a good Laser system...

www.snipershide.com

 

[eflyguy]

Nope. Need a ton of power to mark metal, $5k won't put a dent in it.

The exception would be if you plan to use a coating that effectively becomes powdercoat under the beam.

I have one of the cheapest 45W lasers (Glowforge) and it costs $7k today (I didn't pay that, I was one of the founders) but it won't touch metal. It will, however, set marking materials like Cermark.

 

[ken226]

You could get a small CNC mill for significantly less than 5k and easily mark barrels.