I'm looking to upgrade from my xtool 40w D1 Pro. I'm stuck between the OneLaser XRF, the Ikier 70w k1pro max, amd mabe the xTool F1 Ultra. The Ikier k1pro max is much cheaper with 70w of optical power output, compared to the Xrf enclosed co2 desktop laser. I focus mostly on metal work such as knives and other tools which also include cutting and engraving materials other than metal such as exotic wood, or resin. The Xrf is on sale now for $1000 off but since I live in Canada the machine alone with shipping still comes to about 6000 Cad, as opposed to 2880 Cad for the Ikier k1pro 70w max. What would be your choice?
Thank you for this video!!! I have been all over the board on which laser to purchase. I wanted to reach out to you since you work with leather and that will be my primary material. I am specifically interested in cutting cowhide. I not only want to cut the cowhide, but cut sew holes and also engraving on the hair side. I am looking at the Xtool D1 Pro. Originally I wanted the M1 Ultra, but I need a working space of at least 13x18" which led me to the D1. Can you tell me if I am on the right tract? I am also wanting to engrave tumblers and drinking glasses. One final question, my set up will be in a metal shop that my husband also uses to work on cars. If we are in there at the same time would he need to wear the laser eye protection if he is 20 feet away? I couldn't find any specs on that. Thank you for your advice!
I would not recommend anyone do laser cutting/engraving without actual exhaust... unless they have active exhaust for the room in some way. Such as in a warehouse setting that has it's own roof exhaust. No filter unit for a laser is going to be 100% effective. Either figure out the exhaust system or rent a place where it can be implemented. For a lot of people, that means not having the machine at home. Ultimately there are no laws about having these machines in a residential property, but it's still not safe. Ideal setup is having ventilation for the room + filter unit exhausting directly outside.
I dont think anyone should use budget or DIY filter options for that reason. I have an expensive air quality monitor and when my filters are clean there is barely a blip in the radar when running. However off-gassing once the laser lid is opened and material removed is inevitable even with a great exhaust. Always have a room filter running as well almost 24/7.
Super helpful thread here.@@justinlaser - what monitor do you use for air quality? I've got a HEPA air purifier with a monitor built in, but I'm not sure how accurate it is and I might want to upgrade. Cheers.
Darn good list!! I would add to follow groups using the brands you are interested in. Users will share the ups and downs with a machine and interfacing with the company. Do you have the skills or aptitude to handle the challenges users face? I wish I had followed the group with my first laser,I would have run in the other direction…and it was not a cheap one. Unrelated question… you do a lot of acrylic, how often you you have to change the charcoal filter portion?
Absolutely! Im still in groups for lasers I never ended up buying lol. I end up changing the charcoal filter about every 3 months-ish. Acrylic exhaust isnt super particulate heavy like wood so the Pre-filter and HEPA last much longer than that.
For anyone out there that has already bought their first laser: What is a consideration YOU would add to the list? Add a comment! ✅
Justin gives no-nonsense info. This will save you $$$.
I try! Appreciate it!
Thank you for the detailed video for first-time laser buyers. It really helps. Thanks once again.
Thanks for watching!
All good stuff, listen to this guy! he is helping you save lots of headaches down the road!
Haha you the man!
Any diy alternative?
This is a really helpful and well thought out video. Thank you!
Appreciate it!
Great run-through! Thank you
Much appreciated!
Great video! Very helpful!
Great video. Thank you for the information.
Thanks for watching!
I'm looking to upgrade from my xtool 40w D1 Pro. I'm stuck between the OneLaser XRF, the Ikier 70w k1pro max, amd mabe the xTool F1 Ultra. The Ikier k1pro max is much cheaper with 70w of optical power output, compared to the Xrf enclosed co2 desktop laser. I focus mostly on metal work such as knives and other tools which also include cutting and engraving materials other than metal such as exotic wood, or resin. The Xrf is on sale now for $1000 off but since I live in Canada the machine alone with shipping still comes to about 6000 Cad, as opposed to 2880 Cad for the Ikier k1pro 70w max. What would be your choice?
Thank you!
Thank you for this video!!! I have been all over the board on which laser to purchase. I wanted to reach out to you since you work with leather and that will be my primary material. I am specifically interested in cutting cowhide. I not only want to cut the cowhide, but cut sew holes and also engraving on the hair side. I am looking at the Xtool D1 Pro. Originally I wanted the M1 Ultra, but I need a working space of at least 13x18" which led me to the D1. Can you tell me if I am on the right tract? I am also wanting to engrave tumblers and drinking glasses. One final question, my set up will be in a metal shop that my husband also uses to work on cars. If we are in there at the same time would he need to wear the laser eye protection if he is 20 feet away? I couldn't find any specs on that. Thank you for your advice!
I would not recommend anyone do laser cutting/engraving without actual exhaust... unless they have active exhaust for the room in some way. Such as in a warehouse setting that has it's own roof exhaust.
No filter unit for a laser is going to be 100% effective. Either figure out the exhaust system or rent a place where it can be implemented. For a lot of people, that means not having the machine at home. Ultimately there are no laws about having these machines in a residential property, but it's still not safe.
Ideal setup is having ventilation for the room + filter unit exhausting directly outside.
I dont think anyone should use budget or DIY filter options for that reason. I have an expensive air quality monitor and when my filters are clean there is barely a blip in the radar when running. However off-gassing once the laser lid is opened and material removed is inevitable even with a great exhaust. Always have a room filter running as well almost 24/7.
Super helpful thread here.@@justinlaser - what monitor do you use for air quality? I've got a HEPA air purifier with a monitor built in, but I'm not sure how accurate it is and I might want to upgrade. Cheers.
I’m looking to buy a CO2 engraving that can do a lot of materials. What do you recommend?
Top 3 choices between 400-500$ for beginning?
PPE, good eye protection 🥽 laser goggles. Not to rely on the ones that come in the box.
GREAT consideration!
What are your thoughts about the Longer Ray5 20W diode laser? Looking to up my tumbler business by engraving color designs.
Darn good list!!
I would add to follow groups using the brands you are interested in. Users will share the ups and downs with a machine and interfacing with the company. Do you have the skills or aptitude to handle the challenges users face? I wish I had followed the group with my first laser,I would have run in the other direction…and it was not a cheap one.
Unrelated question… you do a lot of acrylic, how often you you have to change the charcoal filter portion?
Absolutely! Im still in groups for lasers I never ended up buying lol. I end up changing the charcoal filter about every 3 months-ish. Acrylic exhaust isnt super particulate heavy like wood so the Pre-filter and HEPA last much longer than that.
@@justinlaser Thanks!
Can xTool F1 Ultra engrave on coated plastic phone cases?