3D Printed Crime

PC World takes a very deep look at some of the criminal possibilities of 3D printing in a recent article. We've been quite concerned about how this will play out, as have some others. When you have a machine that can create practically anything, what do you expect to happen? 

 

PC World's article details a few incidents we've seen before, such as the 3D printed handcuff key and the ATM skimmer replacement. The latest incident seems a bit more troubling: someone posted a magazine for an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, which then led to another creator posting a key part for the AR-15 rifle (the Lower Receiver), seemingly opening up the possibility of bypassing legal checks normally required when purchasing said rifle. 

 

Much discussion ensued among blogs, and especially on the Thingiverse page where this item still resides. Is this a legal thing? Is it moral to post it or weapons in general? Will the part actually work anyway? What does the law say. 

 

What do we think? We think you should read the lengthy comments at Thingiverse. 

 

Via PC World and Thingiverse

Comments

[John Hardin]

...seemingly opening up the possibility of bypassing legal checks normally required when purchasing said rifle.

You can purchase 80%-complete lower receivers (the regulated component) without any background checks or other government involvement, and do the remaining 20% of the machining yourself, then add the other parts to have a fully functioning firearm. It's not that difficult and doesn't require any complicated tools or operations.

Is it moral to post it or weapons in general?

ANY tool can be used to commit an act of violence. If you fear an inanimate object, you are being irrational. It is the people who show a propensity for committing crimes of violence that should be feared and regulated, not the tools.

[Criminal Background Check]

I would agree to John Hardin any thing can be used as a weapon or an accessory to commit crime, it is better that we are aware of this things and open in every possibility. And in terms of purchasing guns it is important that you have to coordinate to legal experts or do background check.