First 3D-Printed Gun Successfully Tested

3D-Printed Gun

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The debate on gun control may soon go up one level higher after a man from Texas was able to successfully fire an actual bullet using a 3D-printed gun.

Cody Wilson, a law student from the University of Texas, released a video showing test shots using the “Liberator,” a 3D-printed gun. The main components of the gun are made from plastic, and it only has two metal components, the firing pin and a six-ounce steel component that is a requirement of the Undetectable Firearms Act. The steel component will allow the gun to be detected by metal detectors. However, it may also be possible for other gun enthusiasts not to include it.

Wilson actually planned to print the weapon earlier but after Startasys, the manufacturer of the 3D printer, got wind of his plans, they confiscated the leased printer form the nonprofit organization of Wilson, Defense Distributed. However, he was still able to print out the Liberator at a cost of $8,000.

Wilson advocates the freedom of anyone around the world to be able to download blueprints for weapons and the capability of printing them using a 3D printer. Although he is aware of the concerns of his detractors, he is adamant on his advocacy. The blueprint for the 3D-printed gun of Wilson is reportedly available on the net and can be used by anyone who has access to a3D printer.

The primary goal of Defense Distributed is to develop printable firearms. It also aims to be a hub for such weapons. It also seems that the organization wants to get some reaction from lawmakers.

And it appears that the organization has gotten the attention of Senator Charles Schumer of New York. He called for a ban on 3D-printed guns during a recent press conference.  He said that it will be possible for anyone to produce weapons at the comfort of their own homes. This includes people who may not qualify to legally acquire a weapon.

Schumer said that it may be possible for a felon, a spousal abuser, a mentally-ill person or a terrorist to have a gun factory inside the garage. He added that he wants the undetectable weapons ban to include plastic high-capacity magazines. An Undetectable Firearms Modernization Act will also be introduced by Rep. Steve Israel and Senator Schumer soon.

The plan of Schumer may affect any future plans of anyone who aims to produce their own 3D-printed guns in their backyard.