I export the solid models into VCarve to make the toolpaths, if it's appropriate for that, or I import them into BobCAD, which is like a beefed-up VCarve more for traditional CNC machining. It's Bloody well NOT FREE anymore (!!!!!).

I use a 3Dconnexion SpacePilot love it!īefore you make the jump, at least try AutoDesk Fusion 360. Even VCarve, ostensibly a 2.5D program, can benefit from a 3D mouse. And because nearly everything I make is designed from scratch, I use Fusion for the 3D modeling work.Īll the 3D design packages are FAR easier to use if you invest in a 3D mouse. BobCAD's CAM output, is FAR superior IMO to Vectric's. I went with BobCAD/CAM, though I don't use their CAD for anything but extracting edges of the geometry to machine, alignment-pin holes, that kind of thing. If you want to start from an empty space and create your own 3D parts, multiple of them you can that fit together see how they move, or maybe design a folded sheet-metal enclosure (to cut on your Shark, fold on a press-brake), or a welded assembly, then something like AutoDesk Fusion360 (Free to students, $25/month, $300/year), Solidworks ($$$$), BobCAD ($$$$) or Vectric ($$$) is going to work well. That's loony! And if you decide to later on, and you have to change systems, then what do you do with the old designs? Remake them? No, that's insane don't use this as your decision point use one of the others. just can't imagine that if you designed one part in a 3D environment, that you'd not ever want to design a mating part. If you want to start from scratch to create your own 3D designs, but you have no intention of ever designing two parts together in the same file, then Aspire will get you there. But, VCarve and Aspire can cut them (and even generate engraving toolpaths mapped onto the 3D surface) If you want to scan a bunch of photos of Porsche's to make a 3D model, and then carve that, then some outside software will be needed to build the initial 3D model. And VCarve Pro, and even in some cases Cut3D will work sufficiently. If you downloaded the Porsche 3D model and you just want to carve it, then Vectric is gonna do you fine. I'd grade the available offerings into four blocks, based on **how** you are thinking you'll turn a nice block of wood into a Porsche + sawdust. Like with all things, it depends on what you're tying to do.

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