3D Printing

Guide to 3D Printing for (Some) Second Amendment Applications

3D printing has captured the imagination of tinkerers and enthusiasts everywhere, and the Second Amendment community is no exception. While 3D printing offers some interesting possibilities for customization and target practice, it's important to navigate the legal landscape carefully.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult your state and local laws before attempting to 3D print any firearm parts.

Legality of 3D Printed Firearms:

• Federal Law: The legality of manufacturing a firearm at home depends on your state**. Federally, the law allows the creation of certain non-automatic firearms for personal use as long as you comply with the ATF. This means you cannot manufacture a firearm with the intent to sell or distribute it commercially without a license.

• State Laws: Several states restrict or outright ban the manufacture or possession of 3D-printed firearms. Always check your state's laws before attempting to 3D print any firearm parts.

Resources for 3D Printed Gun Parts (Educational Purposes Only):

It's important to reiterate that these resources are for educational purposes only, as laws vary by state.

• Online communities and websites share 3D printable files (STL files) for various gun parts**. However, distributing or selling completed lowers (the serialized part of a firearm requiring a background check) is illegal.

• Some popular online resources are determined not to include, but a search engine query for "3D printed gun parts" will yield some results. Remember, legality varies by location.

Software for 3D Printing:

• There are many 3D printing software options available, both free and paid.

• Free options: Tinkercad (great for beginners), and Meshmixer (for editing existing STL files).

• Paid options: Solidworks (industry standard), Fusion 360 (powerful and user-friendly).

3D Printer Considerations:

• FDM Printers: The most common and affordable option, using filament (plastic wire) to create objects layer by layer.

• Filament Choice: Not all filaments are created equal. For some non-critical gun parts, PETG filament and PLA/ PLA+ offers a good balance of durability and affordability. Important Disclaimer: 3D printed parts, especially those under stress from firing, may not be as strong or reliable as metal parts. They should not be used without proper testing and at your own risk.

Printable Parts vs. Purchased Parts:

• Due to the limitations of 3D printing and safety concerns, some critical firearm parts cannot be reliably printed. These usually include the lower receiver parts, barrel, bolt assembly, slides, and other small components. These parts will likely need to be purchased from a licensed dealer, though the technology improves every day.

Important Note on Selling/Distributing 3D Printed Firearms:

It is illegal to sell or distribute 3D-printed firearms or lowers without a proper Federal Firearms License (FFL). This applies to both completed firearms and unfinished lowers.

Efforts to Restrict 3D Printed Firearms:

• Some states are considering legislation that would restrict or ban the creation of 3D-printed firearms. Staying informed about such bills in your state is important.

Supporting Second Amendment Rights:

• Organizations like the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) or Gun Owners of America (GOA) advocate for gun rights. However, these organizations typically do not support the creation of 3D-printed firearms due to legal concerns.

Focus on Responsible Gun Ownership:

While 3D printing offers some possibilities for customization, it's crucial to prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership**. Always ensure you understand the laws in your state and prioritize using commercially manufactured parts when possible, especially for critical components.