We’ve seen no shortage of 3D-printed masterpieces over the last several months, but this is reportedly the first time that an individual has utilised the technology to develop a firearm. It comes from a customers on the AR15 message boards, a community for gun fanatics. He utilised a Stratasys 3D printer to develop a .22 pistol. And yes, it really operates it can shoot bullets just like a normal gun.

In fact, the user claims to have fired a lot more than 200 rounds out of the machine, and says it still functions just fine. But he didn’t stop there. He also assembled a .223 rifle upper and attached it to the lower, once more with 100% achievement. There are numerous resources and blueprints for guns on 3D printing internet sites, but this is believed to be the first documented case of a person really creating a working model.

3D printingmay still look like a science fiction concept to the uninitiated, but to those who are willing to open their eyes, it is really apparent that it is right here, it is now, and it is exploding in popularity. Everything from glasses to bikinis to coasters to artificial bones to guitars (want we continue?) has been effectively printed from a 3D printer. It’s fascinating to watch this subsequent evolution in scientific advancement.

Sources and more information:

• News: 3D Printing – The Future of Unlicensed Weapons?

3D Printers have almost infinite uses in the manufacturing industry, but what about the illegal production of contraband good and weapons? In the wake of the tragic shooting in Colorado earlier this week, the Atomic forums entered a discussion on gun control and gun laws not only in Australia but the USA.

• Gun Control? Man makes guns with a 3D printer