How so, Sam?
The R-8 tooling is a bit longer than others, and like Dave said, once you slap a vice on it, every inch counts. If you wanted to implement a tool changer, R-8's may present a problem. I've never seen a changer for R-8's. That don't mean they don't exist, I've just never seen one. Most CNC machines use BT or CAT or similar taper. With something like an ER the collet closing ranges are also more variable than R-8. It seems there's always a drill that's to loose or tight for the collet, and if the tool slips during use, both are damaged. You could get R-8/ER tooling, but that eats up even more room. A standard R-8 collet doesn't have the gripping power of a ER collet. If using standard collets, you would also have to set your Z for each tool change. You could use solid holders, but there long, and made for one size of tool shank. So, in my personal opinion, R-8's are less versatile than others. The fact the machine is R-8 would not be a deal breaker for me. Heck, I would love to have it. For the price that Novakon is advertising the stripped version for, it's certainly an eye opener, especially for people that don't have the time, desire, or equipment to make a comparable machine. Dunno how much Smithy wants for it. Would be nice if they did offer another taper.