Likely The Best "Mini" Mill For Knife Making & The Home Machine Shop | Sieg X2 vs LMS HiTorque

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  • čas přidán 13. 11. 2021
  • The mill was one of the best equipment related decisions I made for my knife making work shop. They truly are handy to have around and will increase the level of precision in your fit and finish greatly. This mill from Little Machine Shop is hands down the best choice when looking at the SIEG X2 mini mill category.
    ⭐ LMS 3990 Mill - littlemachineshop.com/3990?So...
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Komentáře • 399

  • @adventures_in_steel7007
    @adventures_in_steel7007 Před 2 lety +9

    I gotta say you make some of the most detailed and informative videos. Definitely one of my biggest knife making inspirations.

  • @RedBeardOps
    @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +11

    Hope yall got something out of this one... I get a question on what mill I use about every 2 days... so I figured this video was necessary. If yall are interested in the 3990 mill I talked about in this video here is the link - LMS 3990 Mill - littlemachineshop.com/3990?Source=RedBeard ------ Cheers yall
    ⭐EDIT 11-14-21 at 4:05PM - The tilting column mills like the one from harbor freight are actually Sieg X2s.

    • @eddieeggleston6642
      @eddieeggleston6642 Před 2 lety

      Any thoughts on the model 4190?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      @@eddieeggleston6642 Hey Eddie, I haven't put hands on that one... looks cool though

    • @eddieeggleston6642
      @eddieeggleston6642 Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps I will have one end of next week. Hope it's all it's cracked up to be!!

  • @kenmueller8632
    @kenmueller8632 Před rokem +5

    I purchased that 3990, the Tooling Package, R8 Mini Mill Essentials and tramming kit based on your review. I’d been researching one for my hobby knife making and forge shop. This one checked all the boxes for me. Thanks man!
    5/8/23 - UPDATE - I received the mill. It was packed and shipped solid. I had to watch and rewatch your video to get it trammel up. But thanks to you, it made that easy. I’m learning and having fun with this superior little machine from LMS. It’s sweet.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Heck yeah! Glad you like it Ken. Cheers

  • @alwayscensored6871
    @alwayscensored6871 Před 2 lety +2

    LMS taught me so much over a decade ago. Done most of their mill and lathe mods. Did not know they now do their own version.

  • @firecannon90
    @firecannon90 Před 2 lety +22

    Thank you. I've been considering the harbor freight mill. But after this I think I'll just wait a bit longer and go with little machine shop. Love the videos!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +3

      Cheers Austin! Yeah, I just had too many issues with the HF version to endorse it... Buy once cry once?

  • @jfriedman5274
    @jfriedman5274 Před 2 lety +2

    Thanks for the 411 and additional feedback it's always helpful from real users and shop owners! I've always been a fan of little machine shops products they seem to do a rather good job putting a good solid product or regardless of the small sizes.....

  • @CavanalK5
    @CavanalK5 Před 2 lety +1

    Just getting into making knives. Love your channel. This particular video is beyond my need at this point but I watched and saved it for later lol. Great video and clear explanation of features. Wanted to give it a like and comment since I watched it through in order to help your Tube stats. Keep pumping our great content sir!

  • @tomt9543
    @tomt9543 Před 2 lety +14

    I bought a Sieg X2D from LMS and have absolutely loved the thing! This mill looks like the HF mill, but there are several significant improvements on the Sieg branded model including the rigid non-tilting column, air spring, and a much larger table/travel. The cost difference is what lead me to the Sieg branded model instead of the hi torque mill, but I’ve been more than satisfied with it! Even built some of the PM Research operating steam engines (stationary, not locos) with it, and not had a minute of regret on buying it! Regardless of what mini mill or lathe someone buys, they need to get acquainted with Little Machine Shop! Hands down the single biggest resource for the small lathe and mill world!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +3

      They are legit! Cheers Tom

    • @ljprep6250
      @ljprep6250 Před 2 lety +1

      Looks like I might join you. The larger table and travel would be worth the $115 price increase. I suppose a machinist might find the other model with extra horsepower and torque worth the money, but I can't think of any need for projects I'm thinking of.

    • @pbc1951
      @pbc1951 Před 2 lety

      Yep Tom T .... I have the HF Mini Mill and really like it... I have my First Order coming from LMS right now... T Nuts, Center Drills, Tap guide & etc... soon I think I will get the Belt drive kit...

    • @tomt9543
      @tomt9543 Před 2 lety +3

      @@pbc1951 I originally planned on doing the belt drive mod when I first got the Sieg mill, but after using it for nearly a year I’ve decided against it! Haven’t had any issues milling aluminum, steel or brass. I’d read reviews of people saying the top gear self destructed on a regular basis, so I ordered 10 of them from Grizzly (cheaper than LMS on some parts) at $1 each. A year later they’re still in the bag they were shipped in, untouched! As far as mods, I bought a Grizzly G0765 7x14 mini lathe, and when in the learning curve I was parting off a piece of aluminum too far from the chuck. The stock climbed the parting tool and locked down the lathe, destroying the plastic headstock gears! Again, after watching vids of people upgrading to steel gears, I ordered a set from LMS and installed them. The steel gears are a lot noisier than the plastic ones were, and since the destruction was caused by my lack of knowledge (part off up close to the chuck!) and I don’t think it would happen again, if I ever have the headstock off of it again I’ll put plastic back!

  • @25centsapop
    @25centsapop Před 2 lety +1

    Howdy, from Belton, Texas. I have loved seeing how much your channel has evolved

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Hey, thanks! Glad you're enjoying it!

  • @armadilloforge
    @armadilloforge Před 2 lety +16

    Great to see you upgraded, love mine. LMS has a reverse switch that will fit just above the on off switch. It plugs into the control board so drill a hole , plug it in and your good to go. Thanks for the link on the face mill.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +2

      Very cool! I'll have to look into that. Cheers sir!

  • @ryansewell5878
    @ryansewell5878 Před 2 lety +1

    Recently purchased the LMS HT-6500. This machine is AMAZING! Little Machine Shop has very high quality products. I was not disappointed.

  • @tymz-r-achangin
    @tymz-r-achangin Před rokem +2

    Nicely done video! Gave us a lot of details that many uploaders skimp on when doing a review of a product.
    Side note: youre absolute right about the feature of a tilting head. They are certainly going to allow for slop in it and thus inaccuracies later on down the road
    The user is better off buying an adjustable swivel vice so can tilt the part to the angle it needs to be machined instead of tilting the head of the milling machine

  • @drewdoesart9277
    @drewdoesart9277 Před rokem

    I bought the Little Machine Shop mini mill before the end of the video. Thanks for being so detailed on everything. I really feel good about this purchase.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Glad I could help! I'm a huge fan of the machine. Use it on every knife I make.

  • @philamundson6578
    @philamundson6578 Před 2 lety +1

    Great comparison video and you give a lot of great tips. I’m looking into getting a mini mill and you have given me some great tips on what to look out for

  • @austinst6146
    @austinst6146 Před 2 lety +1

    Absolutely awesome, best knives on CZcams! 🇨🇱

  • @jwilsonhandmadeknives2760

    I’ve got the Little Machine Shop SiegX2 and it has paid for itself many times over. For a knife shop it is fantastic. It isn’t what anyone would call heavy duty, but for small stuff it’s great.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I agree sir, these little mills are great for the knife maker

  • @mgannotti
    @mgannotti Před 2 lety

    Just rewatched this today. Just added their mill to my favorite list and hope to buy this either Fathers Day or Birthday this next year

  • @theplasticdesert2408
    @theplasticdesert2408 Před 2 lety

    Looking into mills now and this video really helped thanks mate.

  • @vbblades2776
    @vbblades2776 Před 2 lety

    That LMS mini mill is really nice, I've been eyeing there mills for awhile now. Your video quality looks really good

  • @DotaBillfuc
    @DotaBillfuc Před 2 lety

    Although I'm not a knifemaker, somehow you manage to post videos that hit the spot again and again!🤣

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I appreciate that Bill! I do my best. Cheers!

  • @tgirard123
    @tgirard123 Před 2 lety +2

    I love my 3990. I actually bought a CNC upgrade kit for it and it has been such a nice little toy to dive into CNC manufacturing.

  • @johnkoury1116
    @johnkoury1116 Před 4 měsíci

    Super cool!!!!thank you for sharing this video!!

  • @troyam6607
    @troyam6607 Před 2 lety

    Well Done! another fantastic video!

  • @letscheckitout1985
    @letscheckitout1985 Před 2 lety

    Great video and well executed!!

  • @mgannotti
    @mgannotti Před 2 lety

    Great post!!! Especially to someone looking at various mills

  • @MarketingPowerhouse
    @MarketingPowerhouse Před 2 lety

    Awesome man!!! Thank you as I’ve been looking for a mini mill.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Glad I could help! I love mine... Used the heck out of it recently on a dagger build... video coming out on the 15th. Cheers

    • @MarketingPowerhouse
      @MarketingPowerhouse Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps Have you ever made a video on how you made the DIY spindle square?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      @@MarketingPowerhouse As a matter of fact! I do - czcams.com/video/uSLkKqS13Y0/video.html

  • @oliverworks5469
    @oliverworks5469 Před 2 lety +4

    Good info, Red! I have been looking at the older mill/drills recently. Some of them are equipped with 2 hp motors. That’s what I’d like to go with for my setup. But, LMS makes some nice stuff!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Right on, thanks for stopping by sir!

    • @m9105826
      @m9105826 Před 2 lety +1

      It's worth keeping in mind that when comparing an older brushed motor with a modern brushless one, HP isn't going to provide a complete picture of how they stack up in terms of performance. I moved to a brushless hand drill not too long ago that just about broke my wrist the first time I used it because of how much additional torque it puts out.

    • @m9105826
      @m9105826 Před 2 lety

      It's worth keeping in mind that when comparing an older brushed motor with a modern brushless one, HP isn't going to provide a complete picture of how they stack up in terms of performance. I moved to a brushless hand drill not too long ago that just about broke my wrist the first time I used it because of how much additional torque it puts out.

  • @keithmonarch447
    @keithmonarch447 Před 2 lety

    Hello friend, Keith is from Michigan. I'm we could have a wonderful conversation together versus this comment box. You pretty much nailed it on these two Mini Mills. I only got the Harbor unit, cause it had a 200 bucks off. So I bought the belt drive conversion. Since I've overhauled a few machines, I completely stripped it down, this one had some decent Ways. So I just did flaking on the Ways. I had to retire early 🙃. The Mill will be doable for mid size Milling. Also have nice Lathe and do some hobby stuff, watched 😀 on CZcams. I
    enjoyed your Mill comparisons, again very nice 👌

  • @pharmdiesel
    @pharmdiesel Před rokem

    I'm not sure how much time we have left as it is the end of the age. I Love your videos and tooling though and I model my home hobby shop much the same. Thank you for ypur time and efforts. GOD bless and Maranatha!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Thank you! Good luck with your builds sir

  • @kenluning909
    @kenluning909 Před 2 lety

    Very nice video. Well done with the comparison. I had forgotten about this brand. Will be taking another look at this one. Or maybe a little larger model.
    Thanks Again. !!!

  • @roblegrange473
    @roblegrange473 Před 2 lety

    Now that was in depth. No intentions on every buying a mill but now i know alot more then i did 😌

  • @MrDragonUTube
    @MrDragonUTube Před 2 lety +1

    Man, my head is about to explode with all the information I ingested from this video! That's what I love about your reviews Red beard, they are very detailed and you don't miss anything.

  • @DoingMoreKustoms
    @DoingMoreKustoms Před 2 lety +1

    I've been making my knives with the Grizzly Mill for a year now and love it. Beats cutting liner and frame locks with the angel grinder.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      That is awesome! Sure does!

    • @tomt9543
      @tomt9543 Před 2 lety +2

      @@RedBeardOps Angels don’t like being ground on!

  • @ryansimmons3818
    @ryansimmons3818 Před 6 měsíci

    Great video, Red!

  • @edwilliams9914
    @edwilliams9914 Před rokem

    Terrific review. When I was looking for a mill (building underwater robotics, not knifemaking, but would love to try that out too) that fit my apartment bedroom shop, I researched the heck out of everything from Bridgeport down to Sherline and "Sieg X2 style" won. But then when researching the heck out of "generic" Sieg vs LMS, spec by spec, feature by feature, LMS blew them all away. Totally agree with every point you raised and 9 years on, I am still delighted with my LMS 3900. So I felt I had done several months of ridiculously, obsessively thorough nit-picky research. So I was *very surprised* to see a few extremely important points in your review that I had completely overlooked, most notably the shocking difference in column wall thickness. No wonder people always howl about how "Sieg mills aren't stiff enough for real work". Also terrific to see the actual torque curves you came up with. So from somebody who spent about 5 months researching the difference before I dropped cash for the LMS, you get a big GOLD STAR for your extremely thorough and detailed research and presentation. Subscribed, and when people on forums ask "Generic Sieg or more expensive LMS, instead of trying to explain it I'll just point them right to your channel. Well done, sir! (I'm more than confident you make a very fine cutting tool so I'll be watching your vids on that as well.)

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Thank you greatly for your comment! I’m happy the video helped you. The 3990 is a step above the standard for sure

  • @billclancy4913
    @billclancy4913 Před 2 lety

    Great comparison video!

  • @yrigoyen0108
    @yrigoyen0108 Před 3 měsíci

    Excellent video!!!

  • @MrCoolAttitude
    @MrCoolAttitude Před 3 měsíci +1

    I wish these were available in my region.

  • @mike-carrigan
    @mike-carrigan Před 2 lety +8

    Heads tilt so you can do an angle when you may not be able to hold the work piece in a way to put the angle in or you can't remove your piece from the table until you are done. Bridgeports heads tilt as well. You are right though, it is a major draw back to those hobby mills.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +4

      Yes sir! I agree. I haven't found a need for the tilting feature for the work I do. I'd rather find a way to tilt the work piece instead of messing with the column. I could see this being useful maybe with a beffier machine, but with these little guys, I don't know.... seems good on paper and bad in practice. Cheers Mike!

    • @bradleyroon7639
      @bradleyroon7639 Před 2 lety

      It would be interesting to pull the plastic gears, cast them, and make some steel or good aluminum alloy gears, lol.

  • @spudnickuk
    @spudnickuk Před 2 lety

    I bought an identical one to the your SIEG.
    The tilting part is a great idea because you don't get much height on a mini mill, and so if you add a tilting vice then you lose a lot of height of around 170mm and in most cases you can't do any machining.
    so by having a tilting head you can achieve much more, and plus you don't have to spend more money.
    So far I have had no movement at all, and is still 100% level
    Also these mini milling machines are built to the clients price & spec.
    meaning if you get a cheap one then there will be issues, as a shop with a good reputation and put their own brand name to it is that they will want to sell only good tools/machinery that has had good quality control,
    so you do get what you pay for.
    And Sieg are well known for quality as well as Machine mart. so that is why they cost more than other similar models.

  • @OregonBladez
    @OregonBladez Před 6 měsíci

    What a dream machine, I can only dream Some day, some day.

  • @toddhaines5245
    @toddhaines5245 Před 4 měsíci

    It's always a good idea to checks the gibbs and ways adjusting for slack, backlash and foreign bodies that may scar. If you know someone with a surface grinder that will be an asset.

  • @nickatronic1721
    @nickatronic1721 Před rokem

    I am currently doing a CNC modification on my Sieg X2 (branded Einhell BT-MR 550). As you can see in my vids i also converted the gear transmission to a ribbed belt, which was the best I could do, it's much quieter now!

  • @pbc1951
    @pbc1951 Před 2 lety

    Great Video.... I broke my gear on Day 2.... Face milling 1/4" bar of Copper, "" I Forgot to lock in "Z" about mid way column dropped a tad, stopped the bit, broke the top Plastic gear"" Ordered the belt drive from LMS.... It is my first Mill, Live and Learn ... I'll be watching more of your videos.... Thanks...

  • @jclark845
    @jclark845 Před rokem

    I just knew there would be a LMS discount code for watching this great video.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Hey James, sorry about that! I don't have a discount code for you. I can say the mill is kicking ass.

  • @prawny12009
    @prawny12009 Před rokem +1

    Worth rechecking trim with each axis at the end of their travel to see if they are flat across their total travel.

  • @brianmoore1164
    @brianmoore1164 Před 2 lety +2

    I have had my LMS 3990 for a few years now and it has been trouble free and I have no reservations recommending it. If anything I would say that it punches well above its size.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Very good to hear Brian! Glad you like it

    • @lisag2771
      @lisag2771 Před 2 lety +1

      Good to hear this. I’ve been debating wether to get the one above this model for a home hobby shop. Not sure if it’s worth the extra money.

  • @halfbaked4life
    @halfbaked4life Před 2 lety +12

    Great video, but I’m sure you made a mistake in using the Jacob’s Chuck to tram your table. Jacob chucks have an excessive amount of runout no matter the brand. A collet is the best option. I love my LMS 3990 HiTorque.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks for the info sir! Yeah, I should do that again

    • @GoodPimpofTheNorth
      @GoodPimpofTheNorth Před rokem

      You can indicate your chuck by putting a dowel in the chuck and put an indicator on the dowel and find your high and low spots then tap it with a mallet to get it zeroed.

  • @jamesfair9751
    @jamesfair9751 Před rokem

    The tilt heads on those other mills if for milling angles. Works good for putting a 45 flat on the corner of square pieces.

  • @williamweesner1191
    @williamweesner1191 Před rokem

    Love LMS. This is a great video. I’m in the market for the PM728 but I have no reason to spend that kind of money. But I don’t want anymore sloppy stuff that needs rebuilding out of the box. This mini might be just what I need.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem +1

      Glad you found it helpful William! Cheers

  • @jwspock1690
    @jwspock1690 Před 2 lety

    Interesting test. As always ... very good video.
    Nice day and always sharp edges. ;-)

  • @leec2106
    @leec2106 Před 8 měsíci

    Thank you for your review, now I wish I bought that mill over the SIEG X2 mill, I do like the better motor curve and the larger table size.
    Sometimes we do learn the hard way. Thanks again.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 8 měsíci

      Don't feel too bad about it! You can always upgrade your SIEG as you go or sell it down the road. Good luck with your work sir!

  • @MichaelPontisso-mx1bq
    @MichaelPontisso-mx1bq Před 10 měsíci

    i have the lms mill and it is a good little mill .

  • @fredfarnackle5455
    @fredfarnackle5455 Před 2 lety +2

    Good comparison. I'm surprised you didn't (couldn't?) get the new mill trammed better than that. I have an old X2 that had the tilting column that I replaced with a fixed one from Little Machine Shop. It proved to be quite well trammed after install but I was able to get it spot on with a few strategically placed thicknesses of ordinary printer paper. Here in Australia A4 sheets are 4 thou thick and remarkably consistent. Yep, that spring for the head is rubbish, I tried several methods to replace it but got a custom air spring made and installed it on the left side of the column, made all the difference. I also got rid of the gears and installed belt drive from LMS, installed stepper motors and ball screw Z axis years ago and run it under CNC using Mach3, works like a charm. I am currently installing a 1HP 750W sewing machine servo motor as I find the stock X2 motor underpowered. I also recently replaced my old DRO's with an Optimum 3 axis DRO set, works well.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Cool stuff Fred, I may go back and try to dial it in better now!

    • @ChristopherJones16
      @ChristopherJones16 Před rokem

      I read guys buying used treadmills on craigs list for $50-100 just for the motors and getting 1hp motors out of them for their mills.

  • @nimousa6990
    @nimousa6990 Před rokem +1

    Before you tram the spindle with shim, you must first check the Z movement perpendicularly to the table X and Y. Once you achieve that than you can start tramming the spindle. To tram the Z perpendicularly to the table you add shim under the column. To tram the spindle to the table you loosen 4 nuts that mate the spindle housing and the Z slide dovetail block, and tap CW or CCW for X direction. To tram the spindle in y direction you add shim between the mating of the spindle housing and the Z slide dovetail block. Now you got a true perpendicular spindle to the table.

    • @ChristopherJones16
      @ChristopherJones16 Před rokem

      commenting so I can find this comment easier in case I need help tramming mine when it arrives.

  • @neko8715
    @neko8715 Před 9 měsíci

    First off, amazing video. Second, Im looking at getting one for making folding knives and other small edc pocket junk. Will the 4700 micro mill suffice? I feel like that huge platform on that 3990 is a bit overkill, plus i do not have a lot of room. Im not sure if the torque on the micro will be enought for titanium and hardend steel. Will it be precise enought to mill intricate folding knife parts? any input would he fantastic!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 9 měsíci +1

      You may want to ask the folks at LMS; having not done what you're asking about I'm not sure. I think it would work just fine, but not 100%

  • @tomjohnson6036
    @tomjohnson6036 Před 2 lety

    When tightening those bolts on the column would it be better to use a torque wrench? Not that I know of any particular torque spec but am just thinking it would make the tightening more consistent and remove a variable in the process.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Hey Tom, I'm sure that would help! Good point

  • @aarontracy6015
    @aarontracy6015 Před 2 lety

    LMS makes a great mill. I have an android DRO on mine and love it. Yuri sell it under TouchDRO. Totally worth the money.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      I’ll be getting a DRO soon! Can’t wait! Cheers

    • @aarontracy6015
      @aarontracy6015 Před 2 lety

      ​@@RedBeardOps I have a power feed Y Axis too. I sent you an email.

  • @davidroan9652
    @davidroan9652 Před 2 lety +1

    Hey Red Beard! I've been looking for a good guide on the first essential bits/end mills to buy for CNC knifemaking. I haven't been able to find something comprehensive. Do you know where this info might be?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Hey David, I don't know where a guide is. I've just bought what I need for given projects.

  • @EZ_shop
    @EZ_shop Před 2 lety

    Nice review.

  • @joevaldez2939
    @joevaldez2939 Před 2 lety

    Excellent video. Where did you get the gauge and shim kit?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Hey Joe, i have a link in the description. Cheers

  • @MG-kk8cw
    @MG-kk8cw Před 2 lety

    Been looking at the HF mini mill for months. Have been hesitant to but it because of some negative reviews. With I had the extra cash for the LMC mini mill.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Man I feel you. At the end of the day I probably ended up with around the same amount of cash into the HF mill after upgrading and repairing it... Not to mention when it broke (twice now) it's a terrible feeling.

  • @kentac1911
    @kentac1911 Před 9 měsíci

    Probably the best review I have seen on mills! Will this mini mill take a 3/4" ball end mill?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 9 měsíci +1

      With the appropriate R8 collet, I'm sure it will!

  • @chrisweller81
    @chrisweller81 Před 2 lety

    I just bought that same mill 2 weeks ago 😂 love it

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Heck yeah man! Glad to hear it!

    • @chrisweller81
      @chrisweller81 Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps now I just got to learn how to use it roflmao

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      @@chrisweller81 I'm in that boat!

  • @tonycstech
    @tonycstech Před 2 lety

    Question:
    How are the holes ?
    Are they drilled where they suppose to be drilled ?
    I have chinese lathe and mill, both of them have problems with holes, to a point if being unable to crank all the way.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Everything seems in order on my machine. Cheers Tony

  • @KnightsArmory
    @KnightsArmory Před 2 lety

    Humm, good timing. I just decided I wanted to get mill the other day. lol

  • @SteveC38
    @SteveC38 Před 2 lety

    Nice!

  • @ronaldlantz5988
    @ronaldlantz5988 Před 3 měsíci

    When you check your Tram for square is it out of adjustment often on the Harbor Freight model?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 měsíci

      I've only had one, but I'd guess it's out of tram from the factory to some degree. Especially with the non-fixed column

  • @RobertLBarnard
    @RobertLBarnard Před 2 lety +1

    I ordered a lathe and mill from Precision Matthews. They are made in Twain (rather than China) and the level of quality is a step above.
    Standard features include: English threads (not metric) on leadscrews, hand scraped ways.
    Options include: hardened ways, brushless motors (up to 2 HP), roller bearing screws ("economical" and "regular" options) for CNC conversion, and higher-precision on certain models.
    However, for the price, I will look at Little Machine Shop machines when I need to buy more.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Good to hear that. Thanks for the info

    • @NelsonJ1
      @NelsonJ1 Před rokem +1

      PM mills are mostly made in China, some of their products are from Taiwan.

    • @edwilliams9914
      @edwilliams9914 Před rokem

      @@NelsonJ1 Exactly right. The *do* say which are which, but Caveat Emptor -- ya gotta look yourself.

  • @markgrimm3564
    @markgrimm3564 Před 7 měsíci

    could you tell us where you purchased the surfacing bit you where using .i'm also filling out my order off your link for the 3990 and r8 essentials thanks for the heads up on them

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 7 měsíci

      Hey Mark, I think I put a link in the video description

  • @theplasticdesert2408
    @theplasticdesert2408 Před 11 měsíci

    Awesome video. And this maybe a what the question but any idea how many decibels this is when cutting steel?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 11 měsíci +1

      Good question! I have no idea. I generally have hearing protection in 100% of the time in the shop.

    • @theplasticdesert2408
      @theplasticdesert2408 Před 11 měsíci

      @@RedBeardOps cheers mate

  • @AlSayre
    @AlSayre Před 2 lety

    Thanks for the head to head comparison. I'm pretty much sold on the LMS now, too many bad reviews and videos of the HF.

  • @jncmotorsports7437
    @jncmotorsports7437 Před 21 dnem

    Question here I do a lot of go kart cylinder head work but have to go to buddy’s for machine work what would be some tools I would need to mill them ? I’m assuming a fly cutter of some sort

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 21 dnem

      Man I'm not sure exactly what they look like, but a fly cutter sounds like it could be a good solution. You may want to ask your buddy who has been machining them what he uses. Cheers!

  • @jakewood4329
    @jakewood4329 Před 2 lety +1

    Man that's awesome job on Spindle Square do u use it alot?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      I used it a lot with the HF mill. I don't think I'll use it much with the 3990

  • @leonstern765
    @leonstern765 Před 2 lety

    What tooling did you use with this mill? I intend to get one when they have them in stock again. Looking at the Delux with the dro because I need all the help I can get.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I used it heavily here. Should give you and idea - czcams.com/video/nvyYplfh96c/video.html

  • @BrighamKindell
    @BrighamKindell Před 2 lety

    I want one now !

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Heck yah Brigham, I don't blame you... It's a slick machine!

    • @BrighamKindell
      @BrighamKindell Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps someday :)

  • @Asdasd-kb9ib
    @Asdasd-kb9ib Před 2 lety

    Good luck 👍

  • @randallrun
    @randallrun Před 2 lety +1

    Liked and subscribed! Fantastic knife Making;g channel, I sincerely thank you!
    Could a small mill like this alleviate having a drill press?
    I’ll have to look and see what the maximum drill bit the chuck holds.
    Maybe this would be a waste of a nice tool.but just wondering.
    I’m kind of wanting one now, darn you!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I think so man! I use mine as a drill press all the time.... I rarely use my WEN drill press for knife making any more other than odd tasks... Basically it could all be done on the mini mill

    • @randallrun
      @randallrun Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps Many thanks!

  • @binnicksforge9359
    @binnicksforge9359 Před 2 lety

    Hey man.
    I started knife making over the pandemic. I'm using my dad's wrought iron 210lb. anvil. But it likes to dent. I can't get a good level on my knives. How can I flatten out an anvil?
    What kind of anvil should I use to keep a smooth finish on top even after I pound on it?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Hey Ryan, I'm not sure on your anvil. Good anvils have a hardened face and will not dent. They'll rebound your hammer blows

  • @Mikesmeyer88
    @Mikesmeyer88 Před rokem

    Have you ever cut stainless with those? That's what I'm looking to do and was just about to go get a central machinery mill tell I saw them advertised as aluminum and softer materials I'm looking at the little machine shop now.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Sure have! Check out some of my Bowie builds. Lots of stainless fittings.

  • @covad7686
    @covad7686 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm currently making small but very rigid cnc router for milling steel for a customer who wants to make knifes... uploaded couple of videos of the build. My customer has such small mill in his shop, like the one you're showing, Proxxon brand, and it's quite limited and not really rigid, well maybe this LMS mill is better. But for such price for a new mill it's better to purchase used large milling machine. Lile your projects, subscribed.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Very cool! Thank you for your thoughts!

    • @emilvlahovic3917
      @emilvlahovic3917 Před 2 lety +1

      I agree that larger used mills have their plaće, but , you will need to rebuild it as it Will ve worn , and that requiers time effort and money , they do bring alot of function with them tho. I gor one am looking at theese mills because i want to build 2 stroke stuff , mostly quite small , and aluminium , and in my basement i dont have alot of space , well i could fit a larger mill inside , but only in pieces as it would not fit trough the doors, but than i need 330v ,more concrete on the floor etc ... these things do havr their plaće

  • @rickward4384
    @rickward4384 Před 2 lety +1

    Been looking at mini mills and LMS always showed up. Was unsure if the differences were worth the extra money, thanks for your input.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Cheers rick! IMO, by the time you upgraded the X2 you'd be money and time ahead with the 3990

    • @rickward4384
      @rickward4384 Před 2 lety +1

      @@RedBeardOps Doesn't look like they will ship to my area, they list Canadian shipping but no options or pricing. I have sent an email we will see.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      @@rickward4384 Damn, sorry to hear it Rick! Maybe they'll make an exception. Let me knw what you find out.

    • @rickward4384
      @rickward4384 Před 2 lety +1

      @@RedBeardOps all good I don't discourage easy, we will see what they say.

    • @rickward4384
      @rickward4384 Před 2 lety

      over two weeks and no reply from Little Machine Shop...maybe a good mill but they really need to learn to reply to their emails. Their competitors did.

  • @toddmcclellan979
    @toddmcclellan979 Před rokem

    Thanks for the breakdown between the two mini mills.
    When tramming with a flex arm and Interrapid style indicator, the indicator case should sit at 30° parallel to the table, and the needle should sit at 15° parallel to the table.
    You had your indicator at waaay too steep of an angle, I could see it catching on the T slots...

  • @markramey5437
    @markramey5437 Před 5 měsíci

    As a follow up, after having the LMS Mini Mill for a couple of years now, would you still recommend it?

  • @gregoryreynolds9412
    @gregoryreynolds9412 Před rokem

    Wouldn’t torquing the tram bolts to a specific tightness make leveling more accurate?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      I'm not sure, I just kinda tinkered with it till it was all squared up. Torquing seems smarter

  • @michaelk5889
    @michaelk5889 Před rokem

    How has this mill served? I’m thinking about getting it this week. Thanks

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      This mill has been great, Michael! I'm a big fan of it. Cheers

  • @newtoncondict528
    @newtoncondict528 Před rokem

    What is the needed becnh footprint with this mill? I see the specs on their site, but I was wondering with the table being all the way left or right how much space is needed.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem +1

      Hey Newton, I'm away from the shop and don't have a good measurement for you. But these guys should be able to help - info@littlemachineshop.com

  • @BecksArmory
    @BecksArmory Před 2 lety

    Dang you should call this one "Activating beast mode to carry mini mills around my shop" lol You're clearly much stronger than me.

  • @jessevann7720
    @jessevann7720 Před 2 lety

    Red Beard Ops, My question is when you received your HiTorque 3990 Mini Mill do you have to reset any of the ways?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I didn't have to reset anything. What I did do was tram the mill... but other than that nothing.

  • @Orcinus24x5
    @Orcinus24x5 Před 2 lety +1

    How did you get the torque curves for each machine?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      I got that data directly from Little Machine Shop, I'm not sure where they got it form.

  • @Vitor_A.
    @Vitor_A. Před 2 lety

    com certeza ambas são um sonho de consumo. um dia compro uma :D

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      Obrigado pela visita, Vitor! Tenha um ótimo dia!

    • @Vitor_A.
      @Vitor_A. Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps it is always a pleasure, my friend. I wish you and your whole family have a great week!

  • @whdbnrm3023
    @whdbnrm3023 Před rokem +1

    Harbor freight is good if your going to use the tool one time , Of course the LMS is double the cost but over ten years it's not a factor

  • @arduinomaquinas
    @arduinomaquinas Před rokem

    Big show ❤, like full + subscribed 👏👏👏👏

  • @grumpyjuicetrucking
    @grumpyjuicetrucking Před 2 lety

    Delivered by old dominion!!!!🙏

  • @nicolashuffman4312
    @nicolashuffman4312 Před 2 lety +2

    I had a G0704, which is a bit bigger than either of these mills. I kept running out of travel on the Y and Z axis. No disrespect to LMS, who support the hobby community, but my advise is to buy the biggest mill you can. You will not regret it.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +2

      Hey Nicolas, I have heard this advise before! I'm sure it's good. Cheers

    • @alwayscensored6871
      @alwayscensored6871 Před 2 lety

      The next size up X3 has some good mills, got an Optimum version that had a wider X table than most. Not even close to Bridgeport but bargain for about $2000 Oz.

  • @Joe_Bandit
    @Joe_Bandit Před 2 lety

    Have you seen that video from Stefan Gotteswinter where he uses a special epoxy to bed the column down so it has a solid base to sit on? I understand it's better than relying on shims alone. I'm thinking to try it myself at some point.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety +1

      I have not, I'll have to give it a look!

    • @Joe_Bandit
      @Joe_Bandit Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps I'll post the link if I can find it!

    • @Joe_Bandit
      @Joe_Bandit Před 2 lety +1

      @@RedBeardOps czcams.com/video/U7Qs-J2swIc/video.html

  • @CliffDiseker
    @CliffDiseker Před rokem

    Hey Red, What is the cutting capabilty (4140 ordinate steel) of each ofthe mills?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem +1

      I'm sorry Cliff, I really don't know.

  • @oldpathscutlery
    @oldpathscutlery Před 3 měsíci +1

    Does this one have "slop" in the z axis fine feed knob?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 měsíci

      There is some slop/backlash in the z axis. It’s nice having the strong air shock pushing up though

  • @jmbstudio6873
    @jmbstudio6873 Před 2 lety

    LMS for the win!
    Update. I went with the Grizzly Mill G0704 and Lathe G0752. Variable speed and the quill micrometer on the mill is super uber uber handy. Did I mention handy?

  • @jakewood4329
    @jakewood4329 Před 2 lety

    Man this new mill is some nice do u think it's better than Eastwoods model ? I don't know shit about them but was thinking about getting one I like Eastwood tools but if it's not as good I wouldn't get one?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      When it comes to the Sieg X2D class of mills; I don't think the HiTorque 3990 can be beat