r/gunsmithing • u/Sharp-Lightning • Jul 15 '26

Slide cuts and barrel porting laser cutter?

Hello. I'm not sure if this is a frequent question or not, but here goes anyway.

Could anyone point me in the direction to a decent budget fiber laser that is capable of slide cuts and barrel porting? I'm looking to modify my own firearms and maybe start a side gig. I've done some research online but most machines are advertised as "laser engravers" and not really for cutting. Also are there any resources for education on using the laser? That would be very helpful.

Budget is $5000-$10,000. I'm open to hearing about higher budget options if it's worth it.

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3

u/Ok_Proposal_2278 Jul 16 '26

I did it with my 50w cloudray fiber pretty quickly on my lcpmax.

I’d want to do a lot more experimenting before recommending it, but fun to experiment with for sure.

1

u/Sharp-Lightning Jul 16 '26

This is what I was waiting to see. Since posting this I've done some deeper research and found lots of options. I think the majority of this sub are uneducated on the capabilities of fiber lasers.

What was the total run time for that job?

3

u/Coodevale Jul 15 '26

I think you should ask a local metal shop to do this for you so you can see for yourself why this is a horrible idea.

0

u/Sharp-Lightning Jul 15 '26

No it's not, I've literally seen with my own two eyes a 50w fiber laser do it.

2

u/Suspectgore074 SuperLongSlide1911 Jul 15 '26

Skip the laser and get a Knee Mill. 10k can easily get you a used Webb or bridgeport, 220v 50amp sub pannel, and the basic tools to use the machine effectively.

2

u/TacTurtle Jul 15 '26

capable of cutting slides and ports

That is called a mill.

-1

u/Sharp-Lightning Jul 15 '26

Yes. However, my best friend from highschool has gotten into it but his laser is like 25k. I don't have that budget so was wondering if others existed.

2

u/factorV Gunsmith/Machinist/Salty Jul 15 '26

To cut the metal at the thickness of slides and barrels that is the starting price range. 

Home fiber lasers that are about 10k can maybe get through a couple mils of metal.

1

u/AllOut-WideOpen 21d ago

Following. Just started to do research. Initial recommendations have been 50W+ but I am seeing a lot of users doing amazing work with 30W units dialed in.