Custom Parts Machining

[SpeedRacer]

Where do I even start? Let's say there's a part, like a trigger or other small part, that I want custom machined out of steel or aluminum. Who do I call? How do I get the process started? There are several little projects I'd love to get going. Most are for completely personal things, a couple I'd consider having quantities made because I think someone else might like one too. No huge runs though.

I literally have no clue where to start, how much to expect to pay, etc. Anyone shed some light?

 

[dmiculek]

Start by contacting any machine shop with cnc capability for the stuff you want to try and market. If they are not interested they should/will point you in the right direction to a shop that will.

 

[vsound]

You could try Emachineshop. http://www.emachineshop.com/

They have software you can use to design the parts, then they'll machine them. Fewer parts (or one offs) will be more expensive, but they will do it.