14 DAY TRIAL // The Liberator opened up a big can of worms when it was revealed years ago, because it made sure one of the early achievements of 3D printing technology would be a weapon. Since then, tensions have gone high and low, with Australia being a place where the problem is given pretty high consideration.
In fact, the issue of banning 3D printed guns completely has been raised before, though it wasn't really put into place.
Admittedly, it hasn't been put into place in the USA either, although the U.S. State Department did order the removal of the plans from the Internet, albeit a bit late.
Of course, in countries with more stringent gun control policies, some people have already been arrested for owning 3D printed guns, but we digress.
The Australian Senate is considering a ban of 3D printed guns
In truth, the recent hearing held by the Senate wasn't specifically centered on 3D printed guns, at least officially, but there's no mistaking the reason it was called in the first place.
The ease with which a few 3D models and a 3D printer can allow one to totally circumvent all the background checks and other procedures associated with buying a firearm is concerning.
That much we can understand, but it is the opinion of others that banning 3D printed guns, especially without any evidence existing that they increase the number of shootouts, is unfair, or at least premature. Again, a stance we can understand.
Apparently, the Australian Senate itself was divided on the matter just like we are. The hearing concluded that more study was required, including that of gun violence statistics, before a decision can be made.
Since the study will take months, to be concluded near the end of 2014, that means that the problem has been put off for a fair bit still.
Why 3D printed guns are worrisome
Besides the whole “anyone can kill anyone” part, they are seen as very disruptive and threatening because they cannot be picked up on scanners. Oh sure, the 3D models published so far have left out certain parts, to make sure at least the trigger or safety are made of metal, so that airport scanners and such may recognize them.
But it's not such a big deal to produce a fully plastic one, especially if the plans for every other part is available online. Then there are the guns that are actually made from metal, which are as good and durable as the real thing (ergo, they won't break at the fourth or fifth shot).
Fortunately, for now, there is no statistical evidence that 3D printed guns have led to a rise in shootouts. Alas, this may just be because there are very few places where you can get the equally few plans right now.
