Then and Now

[ohiococonut]

I purchased my Shark Pro HD in Feb from Rockler in Cincinnati and got a really good deal with the included Bosch router for free. I also bought the probe that initially had issues but were promptly resolved by Rockler and Tim.
I was reading the forum before that time and running the trial software so the learning curve wasn't that bad. Here is a picture of my first two very nervous cuts.


Here's one of my latest creations. It a two coat hanger on Maple that I drew out and carved. The mounting holes are 16" on center and located behind the coat hangers so they're not visible. I had wanted to make a coat hanger for my shop but now my wife says it should go elsewhere.


Here's a couple of praying hands I did. The first one is Bubinga for my wife and the other is Purple Heart for my mother-in law.



Since my first cut I've bought the Precise Bits collets and tapered ball nose bits along with numerous other bits. I know I need to take the time to work on my sanding and finishing but it's just too much fun and I can't wait to cut more!

The initial investment was pretty hefty considering I had to make the table, shark tank, buy a dust collector, bits, etc, etc so I'm saving for Aspire now.

[roger85281]

Good job. You are turning out some very nice work. Thanks for posting the progression from first cut. I have a Mako on order and I really understand the upfront expense and work to be done even before the unit arrives. I have built a new bench, shark tank and put in a dust collection system. I am nervous and excited about getting the new system, but when I see post where people are turning out nice projects I believe it will be worth the time and expense.

Roger

[ohiococonut]

Thanks Roger.
Actually my first cut was an air cut I was so nervous. When I set the zero on top of the piece of wood I stood with my hand over the e-stop button I was so scared The first two engravings were a little deep but the machine did exactly what I programmed it to do. I've had my mistakes along the way but I also learned from them too. I've broken one bit, dulled one and chewed the heck out of a coupls of clamps until I went to zeroing in the center.
I Still get excited when I go to my shop and power up the Shark!