I have two mills, an X-2 and a BF-20 clone both of them have R-8 tapers. The collets pull up flush with the bottom of the spindle. R-8 tool holders, however, extend 1 3/8" or more past the end depending on the design of the holder.
Joe
Thank you Joe.
The collets fitted directly in the spindle, or a toolholder explains a lot!

Dave,
Having used both systems, the R8 is grossly far superior to MT tapers. Most times they auto release, if they don't, the slightest tap on the drawbar does it.
For holding cutters I have done away with using my ER32 holder, and use them in R8 collets straight into the spindle. A set of both Imperial and metric collets should cost lest than a full blown ER32 set.
I never noticed any difference with either R8 or MT, as they both seemed to extend about the same length out of the spindle nose, that is things like collet chucks, drill chucks and boring heads.
John
Thank you John!
R8 is the way to go!

Hmmm....... Around 3 weeks ago, a pal who I've guided to a 7 x 12 Chester Conquest, asked me about a milling machine.
We chatted..... I thought, there are a few things I would now like to
change with my mini mill and tooling.

We agreed a deal for my kit, and I was going to buy a Chester 16V, and new MT2 tooling, r/table etc.....
BUT! The more I think about my little workshop, and what I do. The mini mill is adequate. Would be even better as R8!
Little Machine Shop do an adaptor! (Though I'm on the wrong side of the Pond).

The more I think about, what
should be a pleasant catalogue perusal..... The more confused I get!

David D