Well, here's my 2 cents. I've used the machine for both the nylon and CA hinges, without the guide. I like the machine for the nylon, because it cuts a wider slot with the thicker blades. But recently, on my SSE, I just cut the slots for CA hinges with my hobby knife (#11 blade?), which takes a little more time, but is really easier than the machine for CA hinges, IMO. I also glued 1/4 tri-stock the the LE of the control surfaces, instead of sanding them down. I know you said that you were planning on using nylon hinges, so maybe the machine will be worth it. And by the way, if you have never used a machine, then make sure to practice on some scrap material before you try it on your plane. The angled LE pieces are tricky, so make some scrap pieces and practice, practice, practice! Good luck.