Police investigating the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on Dec. 4, 2024, have announced that the suspected assailant had used a 3D-printed gun. Several high-profile crimes in recent years have involved this kind of homemade, or partially homemade, weapon.

  • SelfProgrammed
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    7 hours ago

    My best guess is the materials. Last I looked into them they were entirely 3D printed except for a roofing nail to act as the firing pin. The drastic reduction in metal makes them easier to sneak passed metal detectors. Other than that, you seem right on the nose.

    • MinorLaceration@lemmy.world
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      5 hours ago

      I’ve come across some 3d printed gun content over the last couple weeks (who knows why) and while mostly plastic designs like the liberator exist, most of the development in that area seems to use a lot of metal parts. Generally they’re using metal barrels and actions with 3d printed stocks and frames.

      • FireTower@lemmy.world
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        2 hours ago

        (who knows why)

        The algorithm is foreshadowing /s

        This is accurate I’d add there’s a distinction to be made between designs that use parts intended as firearms parts (e.g. Glock 19 barrel) and those that use only off the shelf repurposed hardware parts (e.g. ordinary pipe that has been given rifling via electro-chemical machining).

      • SelfProgrammed
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        6 hours ago

        Read it again, but slower.

        3D printed ghost guns are easier to get passed metal detectors.

        • givesomefucks@lemmy.world
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          6 hours ago

          It’s not the reading speed that’s an issue…

          Last I looked into them they were entirely 3D printed except for a roofing nail to act as the firing pin. The drastic reduction in metal makes them easier to sneak passed metal detectors.

          When did you last “look into them” where plastic barrels were a thing?

          Like, there’s a bunch more that’s wrong with your statement, I have no interest in trying to help you understand.

          I just want to know where you heard such ridiculous busllshit.