Don't know if this is the place to discuss, but you don't go far trying to get into CNC before you realize that you have to know some CAD. I have absolutely no experience with CAD programs, and since learning time is precious and the brain cells always weaker, I would like to invest time and money into something that would work well with my CNC ambitions. My RC modeller buddies use ModelCad, and that company makes a CAD program called DesignCad for $39.95 (2D). Is there any reason not to try and learn this. They do provide training CD's.

I am guessing that a 2D program would work fine for flat work such as signs or airplane wing ribs, but as soon as you need Z axis travel, your would require a 3D program??

Should a person just dive into the 3D program to start? DesignCad wants $89.95 for theirs.

Any other CAD programs anyone could recommend for a beginner?

Thanks

I'd recommend the $89 DesignCAD. Does both 2D and 3D. Very easy to learn and very powerful.