VICE News Explores the Capabilities of Modern 3D-Printed Firearms

VICE News correspondent Keegan Hamilton steps into the riveting world of 3D-printed firearms, spotlighting the rapidly evolving “ghost guns.” At the heart of the story is a unique shooting competition in Florida, organized by the innovative collective Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY), where hobbyists and enthusiasts showcase their cutting-edge creations.

Exploring the untraceable nature of ghost guns, Hamilton builds his own 9mm Glock 19 pistol to truly understand the capabilities and potential dangers of these modern weapons. The article delves into the rise of 3D-printed firearms, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the ongoing debate over regulation and public safety. Join Hamilton on this intriguing journey that blends technology, craftsmanship, and controversy.

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VICE News Coverage of 3D-Printed Firearms

Objective of the Report

The primary objective of the VICE News report on 3D-printed firearms is to delve into the growing phenomenon of “ghost guns”—firearms that are privately made and lack serial numbers, rendering them untraceable. The report aims to explore various dimensions of this phenomenon, including the technical, legal, social, and safety aspects. By providing a comprehensive investigation, VICE News seeks to offer viewers a nuanced understanding of how 3D-printed firearms are manufactured, their capabilities, and the implications for public safety.

Keegan Hamilton’s Role in the Investigation

Keegan Hamilton, a VICE News correspondent, played a crucial role in this investigation. To gain firsthand experience, he decided to participate in the first-ever ghost gun shooting competition organized by Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY) in Florida. Hamilton went through the entire process of building a 9mm Glock 19 pistol from scratch using 3D printing technology. This hands-on approach allowed him to explore the capabilities of modern 3D-printed firearms and gain insights into the motivations and methods of the enthusiasts behind this movement.

The World of Ghost Guns

Definition and Characteristics

Ghost guns are privately manufactured firearms that lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. These guns can be made using various methods, including 3D printing and assembling parts from kits. The absence of a serial number means that there is no official record of the gun’s manufacture or ownership. This makes ghost guns appealing to individuals who prefer to own firearms without government oversight.

Historical Context and Evolution

The concept of privately made, untraceable firearms isn’t new, but the advent of 3D printing technology has revolutionized this space. The first notable example of a 3D-printed gun, the Liberator, was created by Cody Wilson in 2013. Since then, the technology and designs have evolved significantly. Today’s 3D-printed guns can closely resemble and perform like factory-made weapons, and some designs even offer unique capabilities that surpass commercially-produced firearms.

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The First Shooting Competition for Ghost Guns

Event Overview

The first shooting competition for ghost guns took place in Florida and was orchestrated by Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY). This event marked a significant milestone for the 3D-printed gun community as it provided a platform for enthusiasts to showcase their creations and test their performance in a competitive setting. The competition included various categories and challenges designed to evaluate the efficacy and reliability of these homemade firearms.

Role of Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY)

Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY) is a collective of digital gun builders who have been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of 3D-printed firearms. They have released numerous designs and plans online, allowing anyone with access to a 3D printer to create their own firearms. AWCY argues that their work is not only protected by the Second Amendment but also represents a form of artistic expression, thus falling under the purview of the First Amendment.

Building a 9mm Glock 19 Pistol

Tools and Materials Required

Creating a 9mm Glock 19 pistol using 3D printing technology requires several specific tools and materials:

• A 3D printer
• Filament (typically PLA or ABS plastic)
• A computer with 3D modeling software
• Glock parts kit (including metal components such as the slide, barrel, and trigger mechanism)
• Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, files, sandpaper)
• Supporting structures for accurate assembly and testing

Step-by-Step Process

1. Design and Download: The process begins by downloading a 3D model of the Glock 19 frame from a repository of 3D gun models.
2. Set-Up Printer: The design is then fed into the 3D printer, and the appropriate settings (material type, layer thickness) are configured.
3. Print the Frame: Printing the Glock frame can take around 16 hours. The printer layers the plastic filament to form a sturdy frame capable of housing the metal components.
4. Post-Processing: Once printing is complete, the frame needs to be cleaned and any rough edges smoothed out.
5. Assembly: The printed frame is combined with a Glock parts kit. Metal parts such as the slide, barrel, and trigger mechanism are installed into the frame.
6. Testing: The assembled gun undergoes testing to ensure it functions correctly. Any issues like jamming are addressed through adjustments and refinements.

Capabilities of Modern 3D-Printed Firearms

Performance Compared to Factory-Made Weapons

Modern 3D-printed firearms can closely mimic the look and performance of factory-made weapons. In some cases, enthusiasts claim that their 3D-printed versions can even surpass the performance of commercially-produced firearms. These guns have been tested for reliability, accuracy, and durability, with some performing on par with traditional weapons under similar conditions.

Innovations and Unique Designs

The field of 3D-printed firearms is characterized by constant innovation. Enthusiasts are not limited to replicating existing designs but are also creating entirely new models with unique features. These include variations like full-auto submachine guns and experimental configurations that leverage the capabilities of additive manufacturing to achieve novel outcomes.

Legal and Regulatory Challenges

Federal vs State Regulations

The legality of ghost guns varies significantly between federal and state levels in the United States. Federally, individuals are allowed to manufacture their own firearms without serial numbers, provided they are not for sale. However, some states have introduced laws to regulate or ban the possession of these untraceable firearms. States like California and New York have stringent regulations against ghost guns, while others have yet to address the issue comprehensively.

Efforts by the Biden Administration

The Biden administration has recognized the potential dangers posed by the proliferation of ghost gun kits and is taking steps to regulate them. Efforts include pushing for new rules that would require the serialization and background checks of ghost gun components, similar to how commercially-sold firearms are regulated. These measures aim to curb the distribution of untraceable firearms and address the public safety concerns associated with them.

Public Safety Concerns

Increasing Use in Criminal Activities

The rise of ghost guns has been accompanied by increasing use in criminal activities. Their untraceable nature makes them attractive to criminals who wish to evade law enforcement. Cities like Philadelphia have seen a significant uptick in the use of ghost guns in crimes, complicating efforts to combat gun violence effectively.

Law Enforcement Challenges

Law enforcement agencies face substantial challenges in tracking and regulating ghost guns. Since these firearms lack serial numbers, tracing them back to their owners or manufacturers is nearly impossible. This creates hurdles for investigations and prosecutions, making it harder to address crime involving these weapons. The growing accessibility of 3D printing technology further exacerbates this problem.

Technological Advances in 3D-Printed Guns

From the Liberator to Modern Firearms

The technological advancements in 3D-printed firearms have been remarkable since the creation of the Liberator in 2013. Early models were rudimentary and unreliable, whereas modern designs are far more sophisticated. Today’s 3D-printed guns are made with better materials, more nuanced designs, and improved printing techniques, resulting in firearms that closely resemble, and sometimes outperform, their factory-made counterparts.

Key Figures and Innovators

Several key figures have driven the advancements in 3D-printed firearms. Cody Wilson, who created the Liberator, is a pivotal figure in this movement. Other notable innovators include individuals like Durwood and collectives like AWCY, who continue to develop new designs and push the boundaries of what is possible with 3D-printed guns.

Community and Culture of 3D-Printed Firearm Enthusiasts

Hobbyist Motivation and Activities

The community of 3D-printed firearm enthusiasts is diverse, comprising hobbyists who are motivated by various factors. Some are drawn by the engineering and design challenges, while others appreciate the DIY aspect and the ability to create personalized firearms. Many enthusiasts enjoy the process of building and refining their guns, often spending significant time perfecting their creations.

AWCY and the Expression of Art

Are We Cool Yet? (AWCY) is a prominent group within the 3D-printed firearm community, known for its innovative designs and emphasis on artistic expression. AWCY members view their work as a form of art, protected by the First Amendment. They argue that their creations are not just functional weapons but also represent a form of self-expression and creativity.

Conclusion

Summary of Findings

The VICE News report on 3D-printed firearms sheds light on the complex world of ghost guns. These untraceable firearms, made using modern 3D printing technology, present both technical marvels and significant public safety challenges. The community of enthusiasts behind these guns is driven by a mix of innovation, artistic expression, and a desire for privacy. However, the increasing use of ghost guns in criminal activities and the difficulties in regulating them pose serious concerns for law enforcement and policymakers.

Future Outlook

As 3D printing technology continues to advance, the capabilities and accessibility of ghost guns are likely to grow. This will inevitably lead to ongoing debates about the balance between individual rights and public safety. Efforts by the government, particularly the Biden administration, to regulate ghost gun components may help mitigate some risks. However, the tension between fostering innovation and ensuring safety will persist, making this a critical issue to watch in the coming years.

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