Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router
Next Wave CNC
Best for: Woodworkers wanting a 25 x 50 inch Shark with bundled design software and a pendant, while budgeting for a compatible router and setup
Typical starting price
$3,000Editorial baseline for this machine
Overall score
Best current buying path
Where to buy
Prices change often: compare the stores below
- Shipping varies by retailer
- Check manufacturer site for availability
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Quick verdict
The Shark HD520 provides 25 x 50 x 7 inches of travel on a 28 x 63 inch table. It uses an aluminum structure with a steel-reinforced gantry and runs jobs through Next Wave's pendant or Ready2Control software. VCarve Pro is included, but a compatible full-size router or spindle is a separate purchase. Allow for workholding, dust collection and machine setup. The HD520 remains listed while Next Wave promotes the newer HD6 range, so check availability and the exact bundle. It should not be described as today's largest Shark or as a complete package with a 710W Makita router.
Who this fits best
Woodworkers wanting a 25 x 50 inch Shark with bundled design software and a pendant, while budgeting for a compatible router and setup
Where it wins
- 635 x 1270mm (25 x 50 inch) cutting travel for larger woodworking parts
- VCarve Pro and Next Wave control software included; router purchased separately
- Steel-reinforced aluminum gantry
- US-based company with phone support
- Precision-ground rails for smooth, accurate motion
Where it falls short
- At $3000, the proprietary controller is a significant limitation
- Large footprint requires dedicated shop space
- Needs a sturdy work surface and room for the full table footprint
- A suitable full-size router or spindle kit adds to the complete-system cost
Specifications
635 × 1270 mm
8064 cm²
710W
Router sold separately; requires a supported full-size 3.5 inch diameter router or compatible spindle kit
52 kg
$3,000
premium
Full specification table
Relative to database
Benchmark Scores
Overall Score
Composite across 5 dimensions