Hi Levi,
As you may have learned, prices can be all over the spectrum - from high to higher! :biggrin: Actually, from a few thousand for a chinese import (think very low customer support/higher learning curve) to well supported easier-to-use high end American-sold systems for upwards of $15k. And that's for a low end system. I found a used laser on sawmillcreek (dot) org last spring, and had to replace the laser tube last month (a $1400 swap). So, used deals can be found - keep your eyes open for them. The Engravers forum on sawmillcreek has some good info.
If you want to do pens, consider whether you just want to print a name (no rotation required) or do your own Lazerlinez/Kallenshaan style projects (rotary most definitely required.
As for "hard to work?", I can only speak for my Epilog - I can design the project in Coreldraw and then "print" it to the laser - pretty straightforward - but I'm still climbing the learning curve of capabilities. Some of the Chinese models work best with other supplied software. Take you time and do your research. Contact the American based Epilog or ULS or Trotec and see if there are any lasers near you that you might be able to go and see in action. Have them add you to their email notifications for used lasers. Good luck!
