12″ Mill with DRO

Our 12″ DRO Benchtop Mill includes a digital readout box and specialized handwheels with built-in electronic encoders that replace the standard handwheels (standard handwheels are not included with the DRO option). These DRO handwheels interface with the readout box, which translates handwheel movement into precise digital readings for all three axes. Each axis can be zeroed at any time with the push of a button, and the DRO continuously displays spindle RPM whenever the motor is running. The readout is compatible with both inch and metric machines.

This compact DRO mill is ideal for customers who need a small-format machine capable of producing highly accurate, precision parts. Proudly made in the USA, all our mills are backed by exceptional customer support. Despite its desktop size, this machine delivers full-size performance—capable of cutting wood, plastic, aluminum, and even steel with excellent rigidity and accuracy.

Using the DRO System

The DRO displays each axis position relative to a zero point you set.

• Inch models show position to 0.0005″ (three and a half decimal places)
• Metric models show position to 0.01 mm

The system supports both ball screw and leadscrew machines. As well as the ability to use Metric DROs on inch machines or inch DROs on metric machines. It features six selectable modes based on machine type (mill or lathe), screw type (leadscrew or ball screw), and preferred display units (inch or metric). For setup instructions, refer to the official DRO Mode Instructions.

You can electronically compensate for backlash by inputting the measured backlash value for each axis. When the direction of handwheel rotation reverses, the DRO subtracts the backlash before updating the position—eliminating common errors and making it easier to track travel distance and direction. The power supply automatically switches between 120V and 240V, making it suitable for use in countries with 220–240V electrical current. A socket adapter may be required outside North America.

Notes on Ordering a Metric Mill – Most of our cutting tools, such as center drills, are manufactured in fractional sizes. If you’re using a metric machine with metric collets or end mill holders, you’ll need to order fractional holders to fit these tools.

Standard Equipment for the 12″ Benchtop Mill

• Powerful 90V DC motor with electronic speed control
• 12″ base with laser-engraved scales
• Brass leadscrew cover that keeps chips off the rear of the Y-axis leadscrew
• 2.75″ (70 mm) x 13.0″ (330 mm) table with laser-engraved scales and two T-slots
• 1.235″ headstock spacer block
• Digital readout box with LCD display, RPM sensor, power supply, cables, stand, and all necessary mounting hardware. No hole drilling is required to mount.
• DRO handwheels that can be reset to zero electronically with the push of a button on the DRO display box.
  • (2) 2″ (51 mm) DRO handwheels on X- and Y-axes
  • (1) 2-1/2″ (63 mm) DRO handwheel on Z-axis
  • All with laser-engraved aluminum collars
• ¼” Drill Chuck w/ key, #1 Morse arbor with drawbolt
• Pulleys, drive belt, three hexagonal keys, spindle bars, gib removal tool, eight-foot three-wire power cord, and instruction manual
• Oil reservoirs on the X/Y axes and the Z axis help keep critical parts lubricated. These were initially developed for CNC machines that run constantly for hours on end but can benefit manual machines as well