After about 3 weekends, I finished this little project. It was my first attempt at machining something quite small and detailed, and I'm extremely happy with the results.
This is a worm drive gear head, similar to those found on guitars. I have another project that I wanted to make this for in order to test out some theories, not to mention making some chips!
All of these parts were made on a B2229 3-in-one milling machine. I'm finally beginning to overcome some of the machine's limitations through some forethought and creative setups. Though I didn't take any pictures during machining, I'd be happy to explain any of the steps if anyone would like to know.
Call it cheating or being clever, but the worm is actually a section of 1/4" or 5/16" (can't recall right now) lag bolt. I scrapped the first two that I tried because I was clamping on the threads - yes kids, there is a good reason why this is not recommended. I had success after clamping the head in the chuck, aligning it concentric, and taking VERY LIGHT plunge cuts with a parting tool.
SolidWorks model attached-Sparky




