Once you have one, you'll see why you need it. And, if like mine, it sits most of the time, it doesn't cost anything to feed and water, so why shouldn't I keep it? You can do things with a shaper that next to impossible, or impossible to do on a mill. And as others have mentioned, the smooth rhythmatic motion is relaxing. Unless you are peeling off some really heavy, hot chips.....then it's a little unsettling. But that's rare for a hobby machine I would think.
I use mine every year or two. Twice I think this year. But it was cutting ring gear teeth. The only way I have to do it. Maybe someday some real gear machines, but not now.
YES, you should buy it if you haven't already. This is an old thread...........