Solidworks

is HSMXpress able to function with smooth contours in simple surfacing models? I am not trying to do any undercuts or anything too complex. I am try to mill out some surf fins and was wondering if HSMXpress is going to be able to handle those types of files. Not sure if my question really makes a ton of sense, I’m learning on the fly.

Hmsexpress will not allow you to do 3d contours like a fin or aerofoil shape in 3d. It will cut the outline just fine, but not the contours on the sides of the fin as I am guessing you are looking for. Fusion360 and their CAM package (which is pretty much HSMworks) should do what you are looking for. Or you can check out aspire 4 as it also does 3d toolpaths. As will masterCAM. But HSMexpress does not sadly.

Does Solidworks/HSM offer any pricing deals for hobbiest? After a quick look it seems like a very nice system that is very expensive.