Gunsmithing cad/cam package

[atreeman]

Hi, what package should I be using for the basic drawing creation and subsequent programs for milling (3 axis probably)?

I should make it clear that I am a beginner with this technology and would want to become proficient before committing a lot (or any) funds to this.

Are the free programs worth using?

I am intending to create a basic solid floorplate/trigger guard as my first project and use that as a learning tool for more complex items.

Any and all pointers/tips/advice very much appreciated.

Regards

Gareth

 

[operator1]

Re: cad/cam package

Take a look at Solidworks and Gibbs Cam. I found both pretty easy to learn. You can draw in Solidworks and import the drawing to Gibbs Cam.

 

[polter71]

Re: cad/cam package

I have had good luck with Bobcad Software.Easy to understand and not to high on price range compared to others.

 

[300sniper]

Re: cad/cam package

for 2.5d cam software, i found sheetcam to be very easy to use. they have a free download that you can try out. i think it is limited to 500 lines of code in the free demo. it is very affordable to get the full program.

as far as cad goes, i am still looking.

 

[bohem]

Re: cad/cam package

+1 on Operator's advice. I use solidworks and Gibbs. Both are easy to learn you can also look into mastcam. Solidworks offers a full featured student edition for about 150 bucks

 

[CDiPrecision]

Re: cad/cam package

GibbScam is the pitts.. worst ever on the market bar none. You would be miles ahead to go with one cnc. I run Camworks inside of SW. Pricetag is high($18K or so) so unless u own a shop, look elsewhere.

 

[atreeman]

Re: cad/cam package

Thanks all. I looked at Solidworks and have a local operator who may be willing to talk me through the first steps.

Will look into all other packages suggested and pick the one that suits.

Regards

Gareth

 

[BLAWTON]

Re: cad/cam package

The OneCNC is a great cam program buy its self. I have used mastercam, gibscams, bobcam, and solidcam. SC is a ok program and works well with solidworks. Solidworks is the best CAD program out their bar none.

 

[CDiPrecision]

Re: cad/cam package

Notthe best.. the best is Pro-E.. a CNC cam ProE package will run you $50K.. but it can and will do ANYTHING possible.

 

[Strickland]

Re: cad/cam package

I've been running SolidWorks since it was Solidworks 97 (its SolidWorks 2009 now).

I've got my own license and it does everything I need.

And I probably don't even use 25% of it's capability.

But it is very intuitive and you can be up and running on basic stuff after about 30 minutes through a tutorial.

 

[6.81star]

Re: cad/cam package

The problem is no system is really cheap. I have used solidworks and it is the best espically for 3D, next choice would would be AutoCad for a cad system. I also used mastercam and self taught a lot of it with the help of a manual which you can buy for all programs which help and some classes in Machine Tool. The problem is mastercam is not that great IMO I always had problems with trying to get it to work on machining surfaces and planes. It also is limited in comparsion on somethings that others do well. I have not yet used it but the guys at work seem to be happy with edgecam. I would start with a cad system first, you can always write out the code long hand and with the help of a cad system it is easy finding out all the geometery.

 

[BLAWTON]

Re: cad/cam package

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CDiPrecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Notthe best.. the best is Pro-E.. a CNC cam ProE package will run you $50K.. but it can and will do ANYTHING possible. </div></div>

Ok point taken. I just know that as a cad system SW is a great tool and can do anything you want if you only need to draw it. The CAM on the other hand is a way different story.

 

[GUNNER75]

Re: cad/cam package

I have been using BobCAD-CAM for the last couple years and it has worked for me very very well.

I took a BobCAD class in KC and came out of it not knowing much. I took some good notes and as I was learning the machine I was using, my notes started making sence.

Most of my machine work is 2D, but I have been working with a lot of 3D parts lately. I am not having any trouble with it at all. The only trouble I had was setting up the post processor in the begining. I found myself making little changes here and there, but that was mostly due to my outdated equipment.

When I have spoke with others in the past about using BobCAD they didn't think much about it at all. After seeing what I was doing with it, they changed there mind a little.

I don't know that it is the software of choice for a large CNC shop (although I believe it could be used w/o issue), but I think it is the ticket for anyone just getting into CNC operations because it is easy on the wallet and offers a lot.

I phoned a shop that installed a CNC and bought the high end software. They were still having trouble getting up and going. I finially talked them into trying BobCad using one of my laptops and they were cutting parts in a matter of days. Today they use not only the BobCad but there other software as well. I had asked if they would quit using BobCAD and there responce was no.

I tried several CAD software packages and just a couple CAM packages. I would go with Solid Works and Master Cam if I couldn't use BobCAD. I have played with both, but for what I do, I just cannot justify the extra cash. I don't see the advantage in my shop.

FWIW

 

[Bhabit]

Re: cad/cam package

I can provide you with Solidworks with no problems, hawever is it your intent to do the post proccesing your self or send it out? I have a 3 axis program that I can't remember what it is but I know it's top notch. Let me know I'll burn you the CD's.

 

[Stringer]

Re: cad/cam package

+1 on SolidWorks. Easy to learn and does everything I need.

 

[BLAWTON]

Re: cad/cam package

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HEADHUNTER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I can provide you with Solidworks with no problems, hawever is it your intent to do the post proccesing your self or send it out? I have a 3 axis program that I can't remember what it is but I know it's top notch. Let me know I'll burn you the CD's. </div></div>

?

 

[BDOG]

Re: cad/cam package

+1 on SW. Get the CamWorks to run as your path program. It interfaces with SW and even has an auto create tool path feature. A lot cheaper than MasterCam and easier. They just have to be the same same release or version.

 

[CDiPrecision]

Re: cad/cam package

Headhunter..no pirate of this software is a good idea..

 

[BLAWTON]

Re: cad/cam package

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CDiPrecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Headhunter..no pirate of this software is a good idea.. </div></div>

What i was thinking. Dont think they would take that to well....

 

[jcclow]

Re: cad/cam package

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CDiPrecision</div><div class="ubbcode-body">GibbScam is the pitts.. worst ever on the market bar none. You would be miles ahead to go with one cnc. I run Camworks inside of SW. Pricetag is high($18K or so) so unless u own a shop, look elsewhere. </div></div>

Everyone who's interested in CAD needs to take a look at this...

Solidworks Stimulus Package

 

[300sniper]

Re: cad/cam package

thanks for posting that. i am going to look into it tomorrow when i have more time.