World’s First 3D Printed Real Rifle Made of Plastic
In what could have huge political and legal ramifications more and more people are trying to "print" guns in the comfort of their homes with the help of the latest 3 D printing technology using plastic? Although several attempts made in the past have resulted in failure a man from Canada claims to have made the world's first plastic rifle from his 3D printing machine. The video of the test to check the durability of the rifle has been posted on Youtube.
3D printing is the latest technology wherein a 3D printing machine can produce a product based on the digital design and technical specifications given by the user. The revolutionary technology is mostly used to make real life models which is very useful for architects and the military, however it is quickly having an effect on multiple industries like fashion, footwear and jewelry etc and has the potential to revolutionize and decentralize manufacturing, threatening to put many manufacturers out of business in the future and perhaps change the way people think about production altogether.
The Youtube user, was able to fire 14 shots with his plastic rifle. He used a string to pull the trigger from a safe distance and took it up in his hands once he felt it was safe to do so. Similar attempts in the past by many people have resulted in failures as the plastic material has not been strong enough. However this has not deterred some people who are trying to modify the gun/rifle designs available online to make a 3D printed gun workable.
The success of being able to shoot a single bullet should be a cause for concern especially in countries like the U.S where there is a raging ongoing debate on gun control. Many innocent people including women and children have been victims to gunmen going on a killing spree.
With the proliferation of 3d printing technology, the government will not be able to monitor or control the production and use of guns making the current gun laws obsolete.