Request a quote in just 30 seconds. Got questions? We've got answers.
✅ Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T):
Full GD&T capability, including flatness, concentricity, and more
Functional gaging with custom fixtures to verify complex callouts
Per-print compliance to ensure every part meets exact specs
✅ Trusted for Precision & Compliance:
10+ years of experience machining tight-tolerance parts for aerospace and energy sectors
ITAR registered (authorized to handle defense-related components)
Skilled with ISO 9001 and AS9102 inspection processes.
Every part is measured, documented, and verified. No assumptions. No shortcuts.
Alloy & Tool Steels
Grades: 4140, 4340 (pre-hardened), A2, D2 (annealed), O1, S7
Applications: Ideal for molds, dies, and high-wear components
Capability: Extensive experience machining pre-hardened and annealed tool steels with tight tolerance control.
Titanium Alloys
Grades: Commercially Pure, 6Al-4V (Grade 5), 6Al-4V ELI
Applications: Aerospace, medical, and high-performance structural parts
Capability: Skilled in managing titanium's challenges including heat, rigidity, and surface integrity.
Stainless Steels
Grades: 17-4PH, 316L, 304
Applications: Corrosion-resistant and biocompatible parts
Capability: Experience across industries including medical, food-grade, and aerospace.
Aerospace Aluminum
Grades: 7075-T6, 6061, 2024
Applications: Lightweight structural components
Capability: High-speed machining with excellent surface finish on aerospace-grade alloys.
Engineering Plastics
Materials: PEEK, Ultem, Delrin, Torlon
Applications: High-performance, chemical-resistant, and insulative components
Capability: Precision machining with minimal thermal deformation and clean edge finishes.
Prickly Pear Prototypes is a CNC machine shop based in Luling, Texas, specializing in tight-tolerance prototypes and small-to-medium batch runs using high-performance and exotic materials. Since 2021, we’ve supported industries like medical and energy with fast, cost-effective solutions and a strong focus on precision, communication, and reliability. Many of our projects are protected by NDAs, and we take customer privacy, intellectual property, and confidentiality seriously. From one-off parts to production-ready components, we treat every job with the same level of care and quality our clients rely on.
Our primary machining center is a Fanuc Robodrill, known for its speed, reliability, and precision. It features a 10,000 RPM spindle, 30-tool automatic tool changer, and travels of 20" x 16" x 20". This machine is ideal for high-mix prototype work, machining exotic materials, and jobs that demand fast cycle times.
We also utilize a manual lathe for straightforward turning operations, FDM 3D printing for prototyping non-metal components (up to 280°C), and a full metrology suite to ensure dimensional accuracy and quality control. Every machine in our shop is in active use and optimized for daily production.
We hold tolerances down to ±0.0005" depending on part geometry and material. All parts are validated against client prints with full documentation and traceability.
We serve clients across medical devices, energy, semiconductors, aerospace, advanced communications, and R&D. We specialize in tight-tolerance, functional prototypes and low-to-mid volume production.
We machine a wide range of materials including:
- Alloy & tool steels (4140, 4340, A2, D2, O1, S7)
- Titanium alloys (CP, Grade 5, Grade 5 ELI)
- Stainless steels (17-4PH, 316L, 304)
- Aerospace-grade aluminum (7075-T6, 6061, 2024)
- Engineering plastics (PEEK, Ultem, Delrin, Torlon)
Single-part quotes: typically within 12 hours
Quote packages: within 48 hours
Prototype turnaround: as fast as 3 days after material sourcing
We also support rush jobs when feasible
No. We do not require any minimum order quantities. We support one-off prototypes, small batches, and scalable repeat production.
Yes. We routinely work under non-disclosure agreements and take client confidentiality very seriously. All files, prints, and communications are treated as proprietary and secure.
Yes. Prickly Pear Prototypes is ITAR registered and fully compliant with U.S. export regulations. We follow strict protocols to ensure all technical data and defense-related work remains secure and in full accordance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Clients can trust us to handle sensitive projects with the highest level of confidentiality and control.
All projects are personally reviewed and approved by Ben Simon, the shop’s owner and lead machinist, to ensure quality, accuracy, and on-time delivery.
Examples include:
- 7075 aluminum safety cams
- 316 stainless semiconductor sealing plates
- Teflon wire holders for medical devices
- Delrin and nylon brackets
- Alloy steel automotive stiffening braces
- Titanium test fixtures and one-off designs
and much, much more.
"Please send invoice. Super happy with this part."

“Responsive, fast, and accurate. Exactly what we needed to move forward with our prototype. Thanks Ben!”

“Got everything done quicker than expected. Parts came out clean and exactly how we needed them."

Location: Luling, Texas
Instagram
Mail
LinkedIn