- Joined
- Apr 12, 2013
- Messages
- 562
I've been wanting to complete an 80% AR15 receiver and reading everything I can find. My equipment is a 20 year old 15 speed drill press and a well used but serviceable 10x36 Atlas lathe with the milling attachment that replaces the compound.
Most of the talk is that the drill press alone just isn't up to the task unless you like sloppy work. I can see that.
I have used the milling attachment for a couple of small jobs, like making a t-nut for a quick change tool post, and rigidity/chatter was an issue. From that I assumed using this for milling the 80% receiver would not work well...but the more I think the more I question if I'm overthinking this. It's aluminum, not steel, and while it would be hanging pretty far out could I use high spindle speeds and light cuts to get the job done?
Yes I know a true mill would be better, but with the "must own your tools to complete a receiver" ruling I'm limited to what I have and a mini-mill isn't in the budget anytime soon.
Should I give it a try or am I going to be chasing my tail and ruining parts?
Most of the talk is that the drill press alone just isn't up to the task unless you like sloppy work. I can see that.
I have used the milling attachment for a couple of small jobs, like making a t-nut for a quick change tool post, and rigidity/chatter was an issue. From that I assumed using this for milling the 80% receiver would not work well...but the more I think the more I question if I'm overthinking this. It's aluminum, not steel, and while it would be hanging pretty far out could I use high spindle speeds and light cuts to get the job done?
Yes I know a true mill would be better, but with the "must own your tools to complete a receiver" ruling I'm limited to what I have and a mini-mill isn't in the budget anytime soon.
Should I give it a try or am I going to be chasing my tail and ruining parts?