I'm in need of a means to serialize hardened steel gun parts, and a relatively small laser engraving machine - either stand-alone or benchtop - looks like it might work. I don't need to do a large quantity or production line work; maybe 10-15 pieces a year. While this will be a government purchase, I want to keep the price as reasonable as possible. I'm thinking that a fiber laser in the 25-35 watt range would be adequate. Not nearly as fast as a 50 watt laser, but probably half the cost. What I am NOT interested in is what I term a 'toy' laser, intended for making nameplates and knick-knacks. I'm talking about marking machine gun components here. I need a 1/4" high, highly visible, durable marking, that is essentially soldier-proof.
Has anyone here done anything like this? Any recommendations on manufacturers or products?