Nice work Craig. Looks like the kinda' thing I used to do back when I was building architectural models... Man would I have loved to have a laser back then.

Back then it would cost you an arm and a leg to get something laser cut. and if you wanted to buy the laser it would take a whole community of arms and legs!

That being said...

Benny, thanks for the shout out

Rick, The hardest part of any laser project is the drawing. Although I'm pretty sure that you know a guy that might help you with that.

Anyway,

here's to  Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation

So what is the least expensive practical option to get started with a laser now days?  Assuming typical model railroad use for things like making your own buildings from wood or plastic for that matter.

As far as accuracy and software and dependability goes.  

-Doug Meyer

Micromark has one now. 

http://www.micromark.com/laser-cutter,12026.html

....Is this accurate?! I thought Styrene can't work in a Laser Cutter?  Can anyone explain? Thanks.

Ken L

yes, you CAN cut styrene with a hobby laser. It just cuts like crap.

And you can ruin the mirrors from the styrene smoke particles getting on them.

Bernd

Materials that contain chlorine will cause damage to the mirrors.

Everything I read says ABS contains Chlorine. PolyStyrene does not.

Hi Jim 

it is a no name special from China

the factory that makes them does some branded machines they look identical

on e bay Australia they had sold 15 and all had good ratings so I took a $ 3200 Au chance

what a nice machine, way better than I expected

it is a 60 watt co2 laser with a 700 x 500 bed

came with fans, air and water pumps

Hi Bill

all I have read points to what you have said , stay away from ABS , CHLORINE GAS IS LETHAL

​styrene is ok 

have found multiple passes with low intensity ok fir big work but cannot cut fine parts

...plastic, I much prefer Styrenes so I can use MEK to glue the parts.  I am giving that Micro Mark Unit a real serious look at.

Ken L