I imagine that I would have more luck getting work from shops with the same type of machine that I have.
What????? that makes no sense. Its not highschool, the kids with the Adidas and the Nikes aren't fighting. Can you make good parts, and can you make them fast? I don't care if you are making them with a chisel and a file. Are the parts good and are they on time.
Now back to the Haas vs Mazak thing. At the same price, I'd take the Mazak hands down. I'm a Mazak guy, so I may be a bit biased. I've been asked from Haas people, "how is the service?", honestly, I don't know, my response is "it doesn't break".
Presently at work, we are running a '98 QT20 lathe, total price of repairs in 3 years, $416(holds .0003 all day long, predictably). A '95 FJV20, $12000, a new spindle last week(its 12 years old, and it is run hard) and 2 sensors.
I am just getting started in machining
Now, I'm going to ask, why are you going out and buying a new machine, when you are new at this? Do you have a bunch of contacts that are going to throw you money? Do you know the people that are going to get you jobs? Do you know what you are doing so that you can actutally make money? Machining is a tough learning curve, there are a ton of people that just don't get it. There are some that learn quick. A machine that can haul ass is great, if you know how to use it.
Being you're first post, I'm curious in your background. I have a softspot for people from Mass, since that is where I grew up. Went to Worcester Polytech, and ended up in New Mexico making parts and having a good old time. Heading out on my own, 10 months left in my 1 year notice, jobs, contacts,and contracts all ready to go.