Hey Ram,
I would suggest you get to that shop and speak to somebody regarding what you have been discussing and the responses. For instance, designing a handgaurd may not be too difficult, but a 2d sketch will convey the basics (ribs, dimensions/spacing) but if you are going for something more unique than the 10 trillion that already exist, just holding sights on the side and the m240 where the scope goes ( :o ), it may be hard to convey that intent in a 2d drawing.

With that said, Luis suggested ViaCad which I would also agreee with. Huge bang for the buck. You would only go with BobCad in the instance that you planned on moving to doing the cnc yourself. (And even then, some of these others are more powerful "CAD" applications)

Anyway, good luck with it.

Hi Ram, yeah like Luis and Burr write above ViaCAD is probably a good choice for including 2D drawing stuff.

If you find yourself struggling with building 3D models with it and are more comfortable with constructing things in MoI you could also use both MoI and ViaCAD in combination with one another, sending the 3D model data constructed in MoI over into ViaCAD for generating drawings.

But definitely go and specifically talk to the shop about what they can handle, maybe they still receive a bunch of 2D blue prints from people but most of the time shops would actually prefer to receive 3D models instead if they're available, there is much less chance to misinterpret the design when they are looking at the 3D model.

It also depends on what particular CNC process is going to be used - some things like a laser cutter are done totally by a 2D outline only. For other processes like milling the shop would basically have to construct a 3D model from your blue prints which is why it can be better for those cases to give them the 3D model directly instead.

- Michael

You guys are great thanks. I spoke to a rep in Rhino today, he told me his program is not the best for my type of work.
I need something in a mechinical field such as inventor, Solidworks, solide edge, or Alibre. If I am going to spend the money for
Punch CAD I just buy Alibre. I am little lost with these software but I will find the right one with all your hlep. GOD BLESS