Five-axis functionality comes with a learning curve — shops adopting five-axis for the first time cannot expect plug-and-play success. Machining strategies will require reconfiguring tailored to the specific part family under production. The machine, the CNC and the CAM software are likely to be more expensive than comparable three-axis versions. Additional axes of motion introduce additional sources of error and potentially compromise rigidity. In short, five-axis is a high-yield process, but it is also higher-risk.
Initially operating a five-axis machine like a three-axis machine may seem like a waste of capability, but it can help users become more familiar with the machine while they learn.