Lasers Lasers Lasers

[dplloyd]

I'll be uying a laser engraver in the next few weeks. I've done my research on laser engravers. Looked at and talked to Epilog and Laser Pro. So far I'm leaning heavy towards Epilog.

Can you laser owners out there provide some feedback?

 

[1dweeb]

Not a laser owner but I did shop them hard about a year ago, Epilog was the one that I thought was the best choice.

 

[Pens By Scott]

I have recently started shopping around for laser engravers. Always looking for opinions on this while I save up my money.

 

[NewLondon88]

I think that what you buy is going to depend on what kind of a deal you
get and how good your local service people are. (and how close!)
Most of the major names have good reputations. You'll probably see
all of the major names represented by IAP members. Like any other
major purchase, the buyer is emotionally invested in their own equipment
and that is what they know. So that it what they prefer and recommend.
Just keep that natural bias in mind when you read comments.
Get what you can afford, with good local service.
Check the engraver's forums on Sawmill Creek, too. Tons of laser users
there with a lot of knowledge and experience.

 

[NI Joe]

I have an Epilog Legend 25 I bought used back in 2004. Last time I measured it was putting out 35w. It has been a good, durable machine. Service from the distributors has been great as have all the interactions with the Denver support team.

One suggestion, buy the most powerful unit you can afford as it allows you to run faster and/or cut deeper. And a long focal length lens is a good idea if cutting materials more than 1/8" thick.

 

[Fibonacci]

Epilog was my first choice, but universal has thier ultra-high density optics that give you a much higher effective power/smaller kerf.

I ended up getting a cheap chinese knockoff because it was what I could afford, but I would go with the epilog if I were to do it again. Thier software is really nice to use and their customer service is good.

 

[btboone]

I got a used Universal with the rotary table. I later added the Ultra High Density Focusing Optics. It has done a pretty good job for me. I got one with a water chiller and lots of power. It measures around 135 watts. Lower power lasers start out with a smaller diameter beam and focus it from there, so have a tighter focal point. For wood and similar materials, there's no need to go above around 50 watts.