Current Milling Machine Values

[NickB1075]

I am just curious what are you guys seeing for prices and condition of milling machines. I have been in the market for a bigger mill for about 6 months. I am very disappointed in what I am seeing on the used market as far as price relating to condition. I feel like everyone is asking crazy money for a clapped out machine that needs a rebuild. Or they are asking a not much below the cost of a new machine.

I live in the northeast so there is no shortage of machines to look at. I am over 20 so far. Am I expecting too much from a used machine?

My last machine I got for 1200 and it has served me well. I did need to rebuild the head. I just want a bigger one, possibly variable speed control.

Nick

 

[Shrek]

If you think it’s bad in the NE you should see what’s available down here in Florida ! $3000 for a worn out , broken , and rusty Bridgeport is average. It’s been just as frustrating looking here as there.

 

[Ledd Slinger]

What is too expensive?

Do you have a budget set or are you just trying to find a good value for the money?

What is "bigger" than what you already have?

 

[NickB1075]

What is too expensive?

Do you have a budget set or are you just trying to find a good value for the money?

What is "bigger" than what you already have?

I just want a good machine for the value. Not looking to empty the account. I am just a hobby guy, that removes a broken bolt every now and again. If I had a price in mind I would say 2500 to about 3500. Again as always this might go up depending on the tooling. I am just talking about a solid machine in that price range. And most that I have been looking at have been in horrible condition for 2500. And not much better for the $3000 and if its outfitted with an out of date DRO forget about it price triples. I guess I am just getting frustrated.

I currently run an Enco mill/drill. I am looking for a Bridgeport style machine. Not too much bigger then that. The garage is getting tight.

Nick

 

[Kevin Taylor]

I bought a 9x 42 Bridgeport mill with variable speed head for 900 at an auction. Very nice condition, more accurate than I am. Cost me 750 to move it to the shop. I will admit I got lucky.

 

[ebb]

My shooting buddy gave me his before he passed away. I wish I could give him back the mill and go shooting with him again.

 

[Shrek]

I bought a 9x 42 Bridgeport mill with variable speed head for 900 at an auction. Very nice condition, more accurate than I am. Cost me 750 to move it to the shop. I will admit I got lucky.

If you have auctions in your area and can attend a few a deal can be had from time to time. I’m in a tool desert and auctions are few and far between. The few around don’t have many deals because every guy like me is trying to bid on the one or two machines.

 

[Dusty Stevens]

Seems like most every bridgeport i see sold goes for $900-$1500. Of course it matters where you are located!

 

[NickB1075]

I have been the auction route a few times and just haven't hit the right one I guess. My area is flooded with machines as well as machinery dealers and rebuilders. They like to bid up the auctions.

 

[NickB1075]

What are your opinions on the round arm bridgeports? They do seen to run a bit cheaper then the j-head.

 

[Bully]

On Craigslist I found several Bridgy's for around 1200. One was a round arm that I'm sure could have been had for less. In the end, I found a VS in good shape with original scraping for 2k. I am happy with it. I found it thru a machinery dealer that was asking more for it. I made him a cash (as in actual bills, not a check or money order) offer and he took it. FWIW, I'm in NJ.
Good luck.

 

[Shrek]

What are your opinions on the round arm bridgeports? They do seen to run a bit cheaper then the j-head.

The M heads are not R8 collets. Depending on which collet it uses they can be harder to come by.

 

[MDSpencer]

Where in the Northeast are you?

 

[NickB1075]

Where in the Northeast are you?

New York, tri state area (NY,CT,NJ)

 

[perry42]

A Bridgeport in Jax, FL, var speed, 9x36 table, x-y power feed, Kart vise. $3500.
Call Bob Shinall 904-868-7530. The price is firm.

perry42