The 3D printed weapons controversy continues. From the CBC we learn that the Canadian Government, or specifically several of its agencies (the RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency and Criminal Intelligence Service Canada) have sponsored a request for contractors to provide insight into 3D printing of firearms, ammunition and associated parts.
Our view is that such techniques currently yield marginally useful weapons at a cost in dollars and effort far more than simply obtaining conventional weapons. However, a weapon is a weapon and 3D technology is continually improving, so perhaps such a study may reveal interesting strategies for the future.
A commenter who examined the contract request says the study has very specific requirements:
The Bidder must demonstrate that the project lead of the proposed project team has written, to completion, a minimum of five (5) research papers in the last seven (7) years related to the national law enforcement field.
This means, of course, that the study will be likely done by internal government folks.
Via CBC
