I could use some education here.
What does “printing” get you, exactly? I might understand a file that can be loaded into a lathe to machine parts for assembly....but it seems this is something different either more or less.
How would having 3-D printing files help the average citizen? Don’t you still have to manufacture every tiny part? Please explain to me what is controversial about this.
Thank you.
The lower receiver is what is considered the “firearm” under federal law, as it is the part with the serial number from the factory. All other parts are not controlled and can be ordered through the mail or paid for with cash over the counter, no questions asked.
This development in 3D printing is very similar to making a receiver yourself with a drill press and files. Many people have done this at home since the invention of firearms, and it is perfectly legal under federal law, no special permission required, except for some stupid laws from the 30’s that require you to buy a tax stamp and jump through numerous hoops to make short barreled shotguns or rifles, silencers/suppressors, and automatic firearms.
3D printers make the process more understandable in our digital age to this digital generation. You still have to acquire the parts and put them all together, which could take an afternoon to do.
The important thing is you do not have to beg to the government for permission to do it.
bfl
If you look at You Tube - you can load these files into a “Resin” printer to where epoxy liquid that is as strong as sheet metal in some instances - are used to build layers over a very short time. Each piece then can be cleaned - riveted or glued in place - just like making a sheet metal magazine...therefore, one does not have to worry about the availability of a manufacture stamping out 30 round magazines - you can actually print them off using a resin machine...these files will serve as a counter to the govt placing a ban on 30 rd magazines — likewise...it is perfectly legal for you to manufacture a lower receiver of a AR-15/M-4 rifle — without a serial number - as long as YOU own it. This process will create a LOWER and all you have to do is buy the upper and other parts to assemble a full - non-registered - M4 rifle. See where this is going...using composite materials and resins - one can actually make their own M4 rifle - no serial number - no over govt oversight - and it works just like the rest of them (dependent on the quality of resin)...The biggest part of getting a M$ rifle is the lower and now the almost impossible 30 rd magazine...the upper (barrel and bolt) with stock and trigger, 6 position stock, all still have to be gathered...the controversy is that, you, the citizen, could be armed with a M4 rifle and well equipped with multiple 30 rd mags where unknowing govt officials storm trooping your house will find a surprise waiting for them if it ever comes down to this...that’s why there are downloads like crazy...