[kingbob]

I ended up getting a Robo3d, bang vs buck they're hard to beat.

But, ive spent a lot of time tinkering, learning the best way to print different shapes, how to get the best results etc. For example, the hood for the M1070, i did try a single piece print, but for various reasons, i couldnt get a result i was happy with. In the end, i broke the model down into several parts, ie, front, top, sides etc.

3d printers arent at the level of a home inkjet paper printer for example, you really do need to play with them, learn how to work within their limitations, and how to use their strengths effectively.

It helps if you're happy to tinker as well.

Plus of course you have to be willing to create the models for things you want to print. In some cases it takes longer to draw than it would take to scratch build!