2D / 2-1/2D / 3D Software?

Knowing essentially ZERO about any particular CAD/CAM application, I don't
even know what I might need, much less know "what I want" it to do, look,
feel, etc. SO...



If I want to make a part with a 3-axis CNC mill, and assuming I am willing
to stop for tool changes and jig changes, etc, do I need a 3D whiz bang
modeling/rendering - whatever CAD/CAM product, or can I use tools that
employ engineering drawing-like data that show front, back, side,
etc? (long sentence)

What I am hoping for is a software tool set that will assist me in making
drawings and then translate that into G codes.

I want to make a fairly complicated part (1911 gun slide)
repeatedly. Speed is not a concern. Accuracy IS a concern. These things
have lots of curves, flats, radii, holes, and hollows.

Speculation?

tks,
-Flash->