3D printing at home has become so mainstream that blockbuster movies are releasing 3D models directly from the screen to you. With that level of popularity comes the risk that 3D printers will be used for nefarious purposes. The production of “ghost” guns — guns and gun parts that are untraceable through standard serial number tracking — is a concern across the country, and several states, including Washington, Colorado, New York and California, have introduced bills that aim to crack down on a maker’s ability to produce these gun parts.
The language of these bills is currently broad and somewhat vague, which leaves several prominent makers concerned that the bills target the tool rather than the person using it. Several of these bills seek to add software that would recognize whether the 3D printer was printing something illegal and stop it. Some go even further and would require background checks for anyone seeking to purchase a 3D printer. It’s important to note that no such software currently exists that can do either of these things.
While I am currently working with experts across multiple fields, including legal and political experts, I need the input from you, the people who buy and use 3D printers. I am speaking with members of Congress and other interested parties to better understand why these bills are appearing, but your voice is important too. I have put together a survey with five questions about your thoughts on 3D printing in general and on 3D-printed guns as a whole. I would ask that you answer the five questions as honestly as possible.
Even if you currently don’t own a 3D printer, but you have thoughts on how they should be used, I welcome your input. This is not a discussion that will be settled with one bill, and the conversations will be long and filled with opinions on both sides. Right now, we need to understand why these bills exist and how you, the maker community, feel about any potential restrictions.
