Things to know about 3D-printed guns
Gun control proponents are concerned the weapons are untraceable, undetectable ‘ghost’ firearms that pose a threat to global security. Some gun rights groups say the technology is expensive, the guns are unreliable and the threat is being overblown
It’s made out of plastic, can take only a few hours to produce and fires bullets just like a metal gun.
In recent years, with the emergence of new technology, questions over whether people should be able to access blueprints that show how to make a firearm using a 3D printer have become a part of the increasingly polarised gun debate.
Opponents in the United States argue that it will open the door for criminals to easily access untraceable firearms, while supporters say that efforts to prevent the practice are useless and that there are already enough gun laws on the books.
In June, a Trump administration settlement gave the green light to a Texas-based company to post blueprints online showing people how to make 3D-printed guns from the comfort of their home – a swift move that reversed course from the previous administration.
The company, Defence Distributed, said it would put its plans online beginning August 1.
Here’s a look at the debate over 3D-printed guns: