So I finally thought it was about time to give this 3D Printer thing a go, after a ton of research I decided to go with the MakerGear M2. The M2 is a little on the higher end price wise (and quality) as far as hobby machines go but I wanted something that was actually available now, one that was a solid machine (meaning it wasn't made from plywood like some of the other entry machines out there), and it had to have great customer support. (being a newbie like myself this factored in greatly) I choose to go with the kit version because (A) I like building things and (B) I can learn how it works better if I put it together myself.
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The kit took about 2 weeks to get after my initial order but I was fully aware of this when I placed my order. (I could have actual bought the assembled version from Amazon if I was in a hurry) MakerGear delivers via USPS Priority Mail so while it's a bit more expensive than UPS/Fedex it is in way better hands along its journey. As you can see my box arrived in great condition.
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Opening the box reveals everything is pack very well, there is at least an inch of foam layering the outside (not shown) and everything is securely packed inside that with peanuts. BONUS - there is candy and stickers.
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While everyone hates packing peanuts they are a great source of protection and MakerGear packages all the goodies in a bag so you don't have to worry about picking peanuts out of every part later on.
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This is everything in the kit. (plus one extra spool of PLA that I ordered) Everything is neatly baged and labeled.
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Opening the larger bags reveals more bags of neatly packaged parts, hardware, and even some tools. (again all neatly labeled)
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Even all of the hardware bags are labeled so you know exactly what size and length every thing is.
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I needed my laptop to assist in the build as the Instructions are only online. (I did print out the exploded diagrams though which came in very handly.) The instructions are not bad but could us a little updating as somethings have changed since they were written up I guess. (some of the more complicated steps actually come assembled now which is nice) I'm not going to go into a full build on this because it's been done elsewhere on the web all ready.
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Here's a few pictures along the way though. Here I have a few of the assemblies built.
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I've attached the Spider Sub Assembly.
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I finished up for the night by installing the motors, electronics box, and spool holder.
So far everything is going smoothly without any problems....
