World's First 3D Printed METAL Gun
Posted: Thu Nov 07, 2013 11:13 pm
http://www.theverge.com/2013/11/7/50777 ... -50-rounds
Mostly for the benefit of PS, but others might find this interesting. Laser sintering was used to print a metal gun this time (except for the spring) and over 50 rounds of .45 caliber handgun ammunition was fired without incident.
The article is keen to point out that laser sintering is cost prohibitive for individuals to own, unlike plastic 3D printers, and that there is more technological expertise required to operate the machinery. This may be true for the time being, but this kind of technology will likely continue to drop in price and the individual with the expertise to operate said equipment can be acquired. This isn't a mobile foundry, it's in the manufacturers best interests to make it as close to automated and easy to use as possible, much the was 3D plastic printers have become.
Mostly for the benefit of PS, but others might find this interesting. Laser sintering was used to print a metal gun this time (except for the spring) and over 50 rounds of .45 caliber handgun ammunition was fired without incident.
The article is keen to point out that laser sintering is cost prohibitive for individuals to own, unlike plastic 3D printers, and that there is more technological expertise required to operate the machinery. This may be true for the time being, but this kind of technology will likely continue to drop in price and the individual with the expertise to operate said equipment can be acquired. This isn't a mobile foundry, it's in the manufacturers best interests to make it as close to automated and easy to use as possible, much the was 3D plastic printers have become.