So I'm contemplating dipping my toes into the CNC world for the first
time:

I found a late 80's Shizuoka STN mill with a Bandit2 controller. looks
to be very well kept, and clean, low hours, and I was able to see it


I've spent a bit of time watching eBay for one of these. They've generally
went around 1500-2000 with a bandit. I seen Reliable tools, well known eBay
vendor, get $5K on one.

This is one fine piece of iron, box ways, 4 hp head. I'm assuming you have
the tool changer.

The bandit is an obsolete control, holding value way down. I'd only buy if
you're willing to change out the control in the not too distant future.